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Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of peripheral nerve blocks using ultrasound. Methods: All patients who received peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) as a part of their anaesthesia care, in two years were analysed retrospectively. The data included outcomes of PNB effectiveness, complications and limb conditions after block. PNB effectiveness was assessed by monitoring pain scores at rest and on movement and the requirement of co- analgesia. Complications like numbness, motor block, metallic taste, hypotension, respiratory depression were also assessed. Results: A total of 299 patients received ultrasound guided peripheral nerve blocks. Most common block performed was transversus abdominus plane block (TAP) block (46.5%) followed by supraclavicular block (16.7%). Most common complication observed in the recovery room after PNB was numbness 6.2%. Approximately 70% patients remained pain free; however 16% of the patients had moderate pain on movement at 12 hour post-operatively. Sedation score, sensory block and skin conditions were observed to be normal. Conclusion: This study shows that the complications associated with ultrasound guided regional anaesthesia (UGRA) are very few. With advancements in ultrasound guided technique, further studies are required to evaluate benefits and complications in comparison to conventional techniques. Keywords: Regional anesthesia, ultrasound guided blocks, peripheral nerve blocks Continuous....

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Introduction: Inadequate acute pain relief is a significant healthcare problem. In developing countries acute pain services are still few in number, mainly due to insufficient resources. Adequately trained nurses can play a pivotal role in provision of pain management services. Method: A 5-day course was conducted for 30 nurses involved in care of surgical patients at six tertiary care hospitals as a first step towards development of anaesthesia-supervised nurse-based acute pain services in the participating hospitals. Teaching methodologies included lectures, problem-based discussions, workshops, and practicums. Pre and post-tests were conducted. A telephonic interview of the participants was conducted one year after the course. Results: The overall rating given to the course was 4.35 on the scale of 5. All nurses affirmed that they experienced a change in their practice after attending the course. Pain assessment is now performed routinely by them while recording vital signs and they are able to assess and manage side effects of pain medication in a more effective manner. All participants are involved in informal teaching of their peers. Conclusion: Similar courses need to be conducted on a regular basis to strengthen the workforce and improve the effectiveness of acute pain management in developing countries.