When a Cerebrospinal Fluid Specimen Is Needed for Testing, the Specimen

question 58

Multiple Choice

When a cerebrospinal fluid specimen is needed for testing, the specimen is removed by needle from the L3-L4 interspace area of the vertebral column. Why?

• A) There are no spaces between the other areas of the vertebral column.
• B) There is a higher pressure within the subarachnoid space at that point, so it is easier to obtain a specimen.
• C) There are no spinal nerves located in that area.
• D) There would be no possible damage to the spinal cord itself when the needle is inserted into the space.
• E) The space where the needle is inserted is larger than anywhere else along the vertebral column.

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