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SKILL 36 EVD: Monitoring Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

PROCEDURE DOCUMENTATION
1. Check CSF output every 2 hours or more frequently as 1. Volume of CSF output.
needed. If collection chamber fills completely it will 2. Color and character of CSF.
inhibit CSF drainage. If air filter at the top of the drip
3. Fluid replacement, if any.
chamber becomes wet, the system will not function.
2. Read volume of fluid using scale on drip chamber.
3. Note color and turbidity. May indicate bleeding or infec-
tion.
4. Drain drip chamber.
a. Clamp system by turning stopcock to the off position.
If not clamped there may be a momentary reduction
in pressure resulting in temporary lack of drainage.
b. Carefully open slide clamps at bottom of drip cham-
ber and allow CSF to drain into collection bag.
c. Leave 5 cc of fluid in the bottom of the chamber.
d. Close both clamps.
5. Replace CSF (PO or IV) if/as ordered. CSF contains
sodium chloride, potassium, protein, and glucose. When
large amounts are not replaced it can result in fluid and
electrolyte imbalance.
6. Notify physician if CSF output greater than 20 cc per
hour.

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