We are currently revising our IV policy and the question came up about new ways to minimize discomfort during cannulation. We have added subdermal buffered lidocaine 2 years ago with training, etc., but have found that only some of the nurses are using this due to lack of confidence in their technique. There isn't much evidence for the use of EMLA cream in the adult population, but the suggestion came up. Anyone have any evidence or sucess with this? We do not have an IV team.
Thanks!
Kim Talac, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, OCN
There are numerous other methods of local anesthesia. See the Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice, # 34 for the list of methods, other standards, practice criteria and 17 references. The majority of these references are from the peds population but I don't think this should prohibit there application to adults in this case. Adutls are the one with vasovagal reactions due to fears of pain, needles, blood etc. This standard does not limit the application of local anesthetics to peds only. Lynn
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