[Bed rest after lumbar puncture: a nation-wide survey in Austria]

Abstract

Background: Recommendations in medical textbooks concerning bed rest after lumbar puncture to prevent postpunctional headache vary between immediate mobilisation and 24 hours bed rest.

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the current practice in neurological departments.

Methods: We contacted all neurological departments in Austria by fax and asked about standards concerning bed rest after lumbar puncture and about the number of punctures per month.

Results: 28 out of 32 departments replied (88%). Fifty percent (n = 14) of the departments recommend 24 hours bed rest after lumbar puncture, recommendations of the other departments vary between immediate mobilisation (one department) and 16 hours bed rest.

Conclusion: Current practice concerning bed rest after lumbar puncture varies widely in Austria and most patients are confined to bed for several hours. Even though there is evidence that bed rest does not prevent post lumbar puncture headache, there is so far no systematic review published in the medical literature.