A patient returns from surgery for removal of a pituitary tumor that has not extended into the intracranial vault.The nurse observes a large amount of clear drainage from the nose.The nurse expects the physician to order a glucose test of the drainage to confirm
A) that infection has not occurred.
B) that a shift in osmolality has not occurred.
C) that the drainage is postoperative serous drainage.
D) that the drainage is CSF from a cerebrospinal leak.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To differentiate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)drainage from postoperative serous drainage, a specimen is tested for glucose content.A CSF leak is confirmed by glucose values of 30 mg/dL or greater.

A Patient Returns from Surgery for Removal of a Pituitary