10 tricks to a successful NEONATAL lumbar puncture!!!!

Tala Talks NICU
Tala Talks NICU
7 Video Views·Mar 24, 2026

Spinal taps in infants can be tricky- but because of their weak immune system, we are often concerned about meningitis- so we all need to get really good at getting that CSF. Learn some tricks in this video to help improve your stats!!!!

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Dr. Tala is a board-certified neonatologist and has worked in busy level III and IV units for the past 15 years. She has won multiple teaching awards throughout her time as a neonatologist.
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References:
Assessment of infant position and timing of stylet removal to improve lumbar puncture success in neonates (NeoCLEAR): an open-label, 2 × 2 factorial, randomised, controlled trial
Marshall, Andrew S J et al.
The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, Volume 7, Issue 2, 91 - 100

Ilari Kuitunen, Marjo Renko; Ultrasound-Assisted Lumbar Puncture in Children: A Meta-Analysis. Pediatrics July 2023; 152 (1): e2023061488. 10.1542/peds.2023-061488

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***TIMESTAMPS***
00:12 Improve baby's comfort
00:30 Position needle in middle of back
00:58 Angle needle towards umbilicus
01:22 Pull out/push in needle 1-2 mms
01:47 If bloody, pull out needle 1-2 mm
01:58 Change angle of needle if hitting bone
02:17 If clotted, attempt to release with stylet
02:39 Turn hub of needle for improved flow
03:00 Sit baby upright
03:34 Obtain radiological help
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*Disclaimer*: This video is intended for educational purposes only and while we strive to give the most accurate information, errors may occur. Subsequently, this video should not be a replacement for medical advice.