By the completion of this teaching unit, the student physician will be able to:

1. List the indications for lumbar puncture
2. List the contraindications for lumbar puncture
3. Describe when a CT scan is and is not required prior to lumbar puncture
4. List and discuss the complications of lumbar puncture
5. Describe the equipment employed for lumbar puncture
6. Demonstrate a safe method for performing a lumbar puncture on a model
7. Discuss the appropriate CSF studies to be ordered in cases of suspected meningitis or subarachnoid hemorrhage