#386: The Nurse’s Guide to Peripheral Nerve Blocks

In this episode, we explore peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs), which are a cornerstone of pain management in surgical care. PNBs offer targeted pain relief by blocking nerve signals, reducing the need for systemic analgesics, and enhancing recovery times. From their mechanism of action to nursing priorities, we cover everything you need to know to confidently care for patients receiving PNBs. In this episode, you will learn: What is a Peripheral Nerve Block? Learn about the benefits of PNBs, including reduced opioid use, faster recovery, and suitability for high-risk patients. How They Work: Understand how local anesthetics like ropivacaine and bupivacaine block sensory, motor, and sympathetic nerves in sequence. When They’re Used: Common surgeries utilizing PNBs, such as knee replacements, carpal tunnel repair, and shoulder procedures. How They’re Administered: Single-shot vs. continuous infusion techniques, including the use of portable pumps like the Ambit pump or elastomeric devices. Medications: Local anesthetics and adjuvants like epinephrine, dexamethasone, and clonidine that enhance the block's efficacy. Complications to Watch For: Learn about local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST) to nerve trauma and post-op safety risks. Nursing Considerations: Key assessments, patient safety tips, and education to empower your patients before discharge. ___________________ Full Transcript - Read the article and view references FREE CLASS - If all you've heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES...you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life! Pharmacology Success Pack - Want to get a head start on pharmacology? Download the FREE Pharmacology Success Pack.  Fast Pharmacology - Learn pharmacology concepts in 5 minutes or less in this audio based program. Perfect for on-the-go review! Study Sesh - Change the way you study with this private podcast that includes dynamic audio formats that help you review and test your recall of important nursing concepts on-the-go. Free yourself from your desk with Study Sesh!  💕Did you love this episode? Please take a moment to follow or subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode! ___________________ The information, including but not limited to, audio, video, text, and graphics contained on this podcast are for educational purposes only. No content on this podcast is intended to guide nursing practice and does not supersede any individual healthcare provider's scope of practice or any nursing school curriculum. Additionally, no content on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Straight a Nursing is a proud member of the Airwave Media Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices