upper extremity sur-
gery below the
shoulder. Consider
patient factors such
as respiratory status,
BMI and whether
you'll want a
catheter for the
patient when choos-
ing which block to
perform.
8. We can't afford
an ultrasound machine.
An ultrasound machine can pay for itself
if you document ultrasound use and become familiar with insurance
providers and Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements for ultrasound use
in your area.
9. Nobody can help me set up my block program. Wrong.
Your regional anesthesia companies are often willing to set up in-ser-
vices and nurse/physician training on or off site. Ask your vendor reps
how they can help support your program when purchasing.
10. Surgeons won't want to be bothered with nerve blocks.
Although most commonly listed as a perceived "roadblock" to getting
a regional anesthesia program started, collaborating with your sur-
geons isn't as scary as you may think. Take time away from the clini-
cal day (maybe a dinner during non-clinical office hours) to make a
plan. Involve your nurses, management, schedulers and other stake-
holders, like physical therapy, to make sure everyone is comfortable
O C T O B E R 2 0 1 7 • O U T PA T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T • 5 5
• BLOCK CHAMPIONS The husband-and-wife team of Brandon Winchester, MD, and
Emily Winchester, RN, is passionate about nerve blocks.
Heather
Black
from
Barnes
&
Co.
