Episode 35: Nomenclature in Regional Anesthesia

This episode of RAPM Focus introduces something new—an episode generated completely by artificial intelligence, specifically Google Notebook. As part of RAPM’s commitment to exploring innovative ways to deliver content, RAPM is trialing this approach and would love to hear your feedback.

This AI-generated episode is centered around an original research paper first published in RAPM in November 2024, “Standardizing nomenclature in regional anesthesia: an ASRA-ESRA Delphi consensus study of upper and lower limb nerve blocks.”

This podcast episode highlights the power of clear communication in medicine, and the ways in which nomenclature brings order to the world of medical terminology. Specifically, the inconsistent naming of nerve blocks can lead to confusion and chaos that result in real consequences.

Different doctors and researchers using different names for the same techniques leads to difficulties in comparing results and sharing knowledge. “Standardizing nomenclature in regional anesthesia: an ASRA-ESRA Delphi consensus study of upper and lower limb nerve blocks” dives into how convoluted the names of nerve blocks have become. This leads to a recipe for miscommunication—not ideal in the world of pain management. By standardizing the nomenclature of nerve blocks, patient safety is increased for those undergoing surgeries involving nerve blocks.

The study lays out a clear system for naming nerve blocks in order to standardize the language of nerve blocks. This system showcases the importance of nomenclature in not just nerve blocks, but in pain management and medicine as a whole.

*The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. The content of this podcast does not constitute medical advice, and it is not intended to function as a substitute for a health care practitioner’s judgement, patient care, or treatment. The views expressed by contributors are those of the speakers. BMJ does not endorse any views or recommendations discussed or expressed on this podcast. Listeners should also be aware that professionals in the field may have different opinions. By listening to this podcast, listeners agree not to use its content as the basis for their own medical treatment or for the medical treatment of others.

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