Prepare for your lumbar puncture as instructed. After you check in, you will need for sign a form stating that the procedure has been explained to you. If you have questions, be sure to ask them before you sign the form. You may also be asked to put on a hospital gown. Your procedure will take 30 minutes to 1 hour. Please allow extra time to check in.
Prepare for your test as instructed. Wash and dry your hair. But don't use any hairstyling products. Your scalp and hair should be clean and free of excess oil. Take your routine medications, unless told not to. You may be asked to sleep during the EEG. To help you do this you may be told to stay up all or part of the night before the test or you may be given medication to help you sleep during your test. If so, someone will need to drive you home after the test. Your test will take approximately 90 minutes. Please allow extra time to check in.
For your safety and the success of your procedure, tell the doctor or nurse if you:
You may also be asked questions about your overall health.
You will lie on your side with your knees drawn into your chest (fetal position) or you may be asked to sit bent forward, with your chin down. Your low back will be wiped with a special cleanser. It will then be injected with a numbing medication. The doctor will insert a sterile needle into the sac that contains the spinal fluid. You may feel some pain or pressure. Try to remain still and be sure to do as you're asked. Some spinal fluid will be withdrawn. A small bandage will then be placed over the puncture site. You may be asked to lie still for an hour or more before you leave.
When you're able to leave, be sure to have someone drive you home. Lie down flat in bed or take it easy, as advised by the doctor. And drink plenty of water. If you get a headache, lie down flat. You may also want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever. The day after your lumbar puncture, you can remove the bandage. Your doctor will tell you when the results of your lumbar puncture are ready.