Spinal Tap Procedure

A spinal tap, also called lumbar puncture, is used to take a sample of the fluid from the spinal column to look for infection or bleeding. The most common reasons people need this procedure include severe headache, fever with a stiff neck or vomiting, or confusion. Watch this video to learn what happens during this procedure.

Medical Reviewer: Fraser, Marianne, MSN, RN

Medical Reviewer: Jasmin, Luc, MD

Medical Reviewer: Turley, Raymond Kent, BSN, MSN, RN

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