Intravenous (I.V.) Regional Anesthesia: Care Instructions
Overview
Intravenous (I.V.) regional anesthesia (also sometimes called a Bier block) is the use of medicines to block pain for procedures on the arm or hand.
Numbing medicine is injected into a vein in the hand. A tight band placed around the arm keeps the medicine from moving up into the body. As the medicine is injected, it numbs the section of the arm below the band.
Problems from I.V. regional anesthesia aren't common, but there are some risks. They include soreness or bruising and nerve damage. If the medicine enters the bloodstream, there can be some side effects. Examples include ringing in the ears and dizziness. In rare cases, the medicine can affect the heart.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Follow all instructions from your doctor about how to take care of the area that was numbed.
- Be careful not to injure the area while it's still numb.
- If you move the area, move it slowly and carefully.
- Be careful with hot and cold. Since you won't feel pain, it's easier for damage from heat or cold to happen.
- If your doctor leaves a small tube in place to help you stay numb after your procedure, follow your doctor's instructions about how to use it and take care of it.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have trouble breathing.
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have nausea or vomiting that gets worse or won't stop.
- You have a fever.
- The medicine is not wearing off by the time the doctor said it should.
- You have injured the numb area of your body.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: July 17, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
