Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Preparation

PREPARATION

Regional anesthetics should be administered in an area where standard hemodynamicmonitors, supplemental oxygen, and resuscitative medications and equipment are readily available. Patients should be monitored with pulse oximetry, noninvasive blood pressure, and electrocardiogra-phy; measurement of end-tidal CO₂ and fraction of inspired oxygen (Fio₂) should also be available. Positioning should be ergonomically favorable for the practitioner and comfortable for the patient. Intravenous premedication should be employed to allay anxiety and minimize discomfort. A relatively short-acting benzodiazepine and opioid are most often used and should be titrated for comfort while ensuring that patients respond to verbal cues. Sterile technique should be strictly observed.