Does anyone have a standing protocol for the use of local/topical anesthetics (Lidocaine injected, LMX4, Synera or anything else).  I would like to know how you have put that into place so that an MD order is not required for each patient and how you have addressed the issue of the anesthetic being "prescribed" by the nurse. Thank you
We have Medical Executive Council approval for the PICC insertion orders. Those orders are initiated when a physician orders a PICC. The PICC insertion orders include the local anesthesia and the chest xray for tip confirmation.
Gwen Irwin
Austin, Texas
I have been asked to request more info. on this as well. We have an anesthetic policy that states unlicensed prof. can use a topical anesthetic prior to venipuncture. This has recently come under question. Are there other facilities in New York State allow this?
For nurses that are using this "per protocol" is it documented on the medication administration record? Currently we have just been documenting its use and effectiveness when we document our IV start.
We also have the same Medical Executive Council support for using lidocaine for peripheral IV starts. The anesthesiologists were in great support of this policy. Howevern, it does not include lab draws.
Gwen Irwin
Austin, Texas