J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y. N E T • 1 5
tiny needle to solve a big problem.
3. "It's hard to administer lidocaine!" No, it isn't. A few administra-
tion tips:
• Press with the flat side of your 30 gauge needle (to minimize
bleeding) onto the skin, bevel up. This could fatigue the nerves a bit
and work in your favor.
• Spill a small amount of lidocaine on the site.
• Inject slowly as you advance the needle to minimize the discom-
fort of tissue expansion and spread the lidocaine in front of the
advancing needle. Inject until a weal forms. Also, inject as you with-
draw to minimize discomfort.
• Clean the site again and press on the site to displace fluid so site
markers are more visible. It may sting again as the lidocaine is dis-
persed.
David Smith, RN, BSN
St. Davids Medical Center
Austin, Texas
davidgary.smith@stdavids.com
