Anesthesiologist how-to
How to Place an Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Block
Blocks reduce pain and opioid use.
Quick answer
Blocks reduce pain and opioid use. In short: confirm; position; scan, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Confirm consent and site.
Position the patient.
Scan to find the nerve.
Insert the needle under view.
Inject in small amounts.
Monitor for toxicity.
Safety reminders for anesthesiologists
- Complete machine and drug checks
- Use time-outs before procedures
- Prevent medication errors with labeling
- Follow infection control
Key terms
Induction · Intubation · MAC · Spinal anesthesia · Epidural · Nerve block: see the full anesthesiologist glossary.