I know from reading my neuro, that you keep the pt lying flat for several hours after a lumbar puncture to keep CSF from leaking... this is done for some head injuries.
I am graduating this May and I have a 6 year old and it has been the hardest thing I've ever done to get through NS with her. My advice is to wait until you graduate! Have a vacation with your husband as a present to you both for getting through sc...