Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of injecting an autologous blood patch after a spinal tap?

1. Prevent infection

2. Relieve local pain

3. Plug the puncture hole in the dura

4. Reduce edema at the puncture site

The correct answer is: Plug the puncture hole in the dura

Injecting an autologous blood patch after a spinal tap primarily aims to plug the puncture hole in the dura. After a spinal tap, a small leak can occur at the site where the needle penetrated the dura mater, leading to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. This leakage may result in a condition known as post-dural puncture headache (PDPH), characterized by severe headaches that typically worsen when sitting or standing. By injecting the patient’s own blood at the site of the leak, the blood forms a clot that effectively seals the puncture hole. This process aids in restoring normal CSF pressure and alleviating the symptoms associated with CSF loss. The autologous blood is advantageous because it reduces the risk of allergic reactions or transmission of infections that could occur with donor blood products. Other options, while related to post-procedure care, do not specifically address the mechanism of action of the autologous blood patch. For instance, preventing infection is important but does not directly relate to the purpose of the blood patch. Similarly, while local pain relief and reducing edema at the puncture site can be beneficial in post-procedure management, they are not the primary objectives of the blood patch itself. The fundamental goal