Our hospital is currently using 1% Lidocaine as a local anaesthetic prior to PICC or Midline placement. There is talk that buffered lidocaine is less painful to inject under the skin vs 1% lidocaine. What are other IV therapy teams using and is there evidence to support that buffered is better?
Yes, there is lots of evidence. Go to my blog and you will find a short article with links to a published literature review on local anesthetics for venipuncture.
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, BC, CRNI
www.hadawayassociates.com
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861
Go to www.medscape.com/viewarticle/576436
We use buffered lidocaine on peripheral sticks, as well. Have for many years.