A female client has clear fluid leaking from the nose following a basilar skull fracture. The nurse assesses that this is cerebrospinal fluid if the fluid:
A. Is clear and tests negative for glucose.
B. Is grossly bloody in appearance and has a pH of 6.
C. Clumps together on the dressing and has a pH of 7.
D. Separates into concentric rings and tests positive for glucose.
Correct Answer: D. Separates into concentric rings and tests positive for glucose.
Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the ears or nose may accompany basilar skull fracture. CSF can be distinguished from other body fluids because the drainage will separate into bloody and yellow concentric rings on dressing material, called a halo sign. The fluid also tests positive for glucose.
Option A: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear liquid that is around and within the organs of the central nervous system. When compared to plasma, CSF has a higher concentration of sodium, chloride, and magnesium but a lower concentration of potassium and calcium. Unlike plasma, CSF has only trace amounts of cells, protein, and immunoglobulins.
Option B: Several analyses are possible on the contents of CSF obtained from a lumbar puncture. Since CSF should be transparent, the color is worth noting. A cloudy appearance can suggest an infectious cause, and red color can suggest the presence of blood.
Option C: The CSF helps reduce the potential damage in such an event by acting as a cushion and a shock absorber. Since there are continuous production and production of CSF, it also appears to help clear waste products from around the brain and regulate intracranial pressures.
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