AORN journal
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Peripheral nerve blocks involve injecting local anesthesia near or around a nerve or nerve plexus. This form of anesthesia allows surgeons to perform more complex surgeries and provides extended postoperative analgesia for patients. ⋯ The nurse must perform a preblock assessment and assist the anesthesia professional with administration of the block. Major responsibilities of the nurse include identifying and managing potential adverse effects (eg, pneumothorax, toxicity) associated with block administration and patient discharge education.