The patient, injured in an automobile accident, is being evaluated in the emergency department for possible head injury. Which test should not be done if there is an indication of increased intracranial pressure?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A lumbar puncture is contraindicated in patients who might have increased intracranial pressure, because the withdrawal of fluid may cause the medulla oblongata to herniate downward into the foramen magnum.

The Patient, Injured in an Automobile Accident, Is Being Evaluated