Specimen Collection

Question 1

What is the procedure for CSF, is it considered an invasive procedure?

Answer 1

• Also known as a lumbar tap, involves the insertion of a needle into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid
• yes, it is considered an invasive procedure.

Question 2

Who is responsible for performing the collection of the CSF specimen?

Answer 2

• The physician is the one who performed the collection of the CSF specimen.

Question 3

What is the recommended location for puncturing the lumbar vertebrae during specimen collection?

Answer 3

• The recommended location for puncture is the 3rd, 4th, and 5th lumbar vertebrae, avoiding the bone in between.

Question 4

What is the first step in specimen collection before aspirating to avoid tissue damage?

Answer 4

• The first step is measuring the Opening Pressure.

Question 5

What action is taken if the Opening Pressure is found to be high during specimen collection?

Answer 5

• If the Opening Pressure is high, ventricular shunting is performed.

Question 6

What is the ideal timing for performing the test when collecting CSF fluid?

Answer 6

• Ideally, the test should be performed on a STAT basis, immediately.

Question 7

What is a possible risk associated with collecting CSF fluid if the puncture is not done correctly?

Answer 7

• If the puncture is not done correctly during CSF fluid collection, the patient may become paralyzed.

Question 8

What are the two patient positions commonly used for specimen collection?

Answer 8

• lying position and sitting position.

Question 9

How many sterile tubes are typically used for CSF specimen collection, and how should they be numbered?

Answer 9

• Three sterile tubes are used, and they should be numbered in the order they are withdrawn.

Question 10

What additional step may be taken during CSF specimen collection for microbiology purposes?

Answer 10

• If possible, a fourth tube may be withdrawn for the microbiology section.

Question 11

What is the storage condition for TUBE #1 when used for CC or SEROLOGY?

Answer 11

• TUBE #1 should be stored frozen at -C.

Question 12

What is the recommended storage temperature for TUBE #2 when used in Microbiology?

Answer 12

• TUBE #2 should be stored at room temperature, specifically 20-24 degrees C.

Question 13

How should TUBE #3 be stored for HEMATOLOGY when used for cell counting and to minimize contamination?

Answer 13

• TUBE #3 should be stored in the refrigerator at 2-8 degrees C.
• It is used for cell counting and to minimize contamination.
• Normally you don’t see a blood in CSF
• High #- during lumbar tap collection= traumatic tap was

Question 14

What is the intended use for TUBE #4 according to the provided information?

Answer 14

• TUBE #4 is intended for use in MICROBIOLOGY.