#458: Nursing Guide to Neuraxial Analgesia

Neuraxial analgesia is used every day in med–surg, orthopedics, OB, and PACU settings. Understanding how these blocks work, what medications are used, and how to assess patients as the block takes effect (and wears off) is essential for safe, confident nursing care.

In this episode, we’ll walk through:

• What neuraxial anesthesia actually is (and why we use it)

• Key differences between epidurals and spinal blocks

• What dermatomes are and why they’re important

• Medications commonly used in neuraxial analgesia

• Potential complications to watch for

• Priority post-op nursing assessments 

Whether you’re caring for patients in PACU, med–surg, ortho, or OB, this episode will give you a clear, practical understanding of what’s happening during a neuraxial block, and exactly what to look for as your patient recovers.

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