Which techniques would the registered nurse identify as regional anesthesia to a patient undergoing surgery? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale:
Oral route anesthetic blocks are not considered regional anesthesia. They are a form of systemic anesthesia, meaning they affect the entire body.
Oral anesthetics are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the bloodstream to reach their target sites in the central nervous system.
They produce a general depressant effect on the brain and spinal cord, leading to sedation, unconsciousness, and analgesia. Examples of oral anesthetics include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and propofol.
Choice B rationale:
Inhalation anesthetic blocks are also a form of systemic anesthesia.
They are administered through inhalation of vaporized gases or volatile liquids.
These anesthetics rapidly cross the alveolar-capillary membrane in the lungs and enter the bloodstream, where they are transported to the brain and other tissues.
They produce a dose-dependent depression of the central nervous system, resulting in loss of consciousness, analgesia, and muscle relaxation.
Examples of inhalation anesthetics include nitrous oxide, sevoflurane, and isoflurane.
Choice C rationale:
Spinal anesthetic blocks are a type of regional anesthesia that involves injecting a local anesthetic directly into the subarachnoid space of the spinal cord.
This blocks nerve transmission in the spinal cord, resulting in loss of sensation and motor function in the lower half of the body.
Spinal anesthesia is commonly used for surgeries below the waist, such as cesarean deliveries, hip replacements, and knee surgeries.
Choice D rationale:
Epidural anesthetic blocks are another type of regional anesthesia that involves injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord.
This blocks nerve transmission in the spinal nerves, resulting in loss of sensation and motor function in a specific region of the body.
Epidural anesthesia is commonly used for labor and delivery, as well as for surgeries on the abdomen, pelvis, and lower extremities.

Choice E rationale:

Nerve anesthetic blocks (also known as peripheral nerve blocks) involve injecting a local anesthetic around a specific nerve or group of nerves.

This blocks nerve transmission in the targeted area, resulting in loss of sensation and motor function in a specific part of the body.

Nerve blocks can be used for a variety of surgical procedures, as well as for pain management.

Rationale for Choice A:
Making assessments every 15 minutes for four hours does not directly address the immediate concern of blood loss and potential hemodynamic instability. While close monitoring is essential, it's not the primary action in this situation.
Excessive blood loss can rapidly lead to hypovolemic shock, which requires prompt intervention to prevent serious complications.
Relying solely on frequent assessments without active interventions could delay crucial treatment and compromise patient safety.
Rationale for Choice B:
Documenting the data, removing the old dressing, and applying a new dressing might be necessary at some point, but it's not the most urgent priority in this case.
Removing the dressing could disrupt clot formation and potentially worsen bleeding.
Applying a new dressing without addressing the underlying bleeding might not effectively control the blood loss. Rationale for Choice C:
Applying a well-secured additional pressure dressing is the most appropriate immediate action to help control bleeding and prevent further blood loss.
It provides direct compression to the surgical site, promoting hemostasis and reducing blood flow. This action prioritizes stabilizing the patient's condition and preventing further complications.

Reporting the findings to the healthcare provider is crucial for timely assessment, diagnosis, and management of potential complications, such as hemorrhage or hematoma.
It ensures collaboration with the healthcare team and facilitates appropriate interventions based on the patient's specific needs.
Rationale for Choice D:
Reassuring the family that this is a common problem might provide some comfort, but it doesn't address the patient's immediate needs or the potential severity of the situation.
It's essential to prioritize patient safety and provide interventions to control bleeding, even if bleeding is a known potential complication.
Transparency and clear communication with the family are important, but they should not replace necessary medical interventions.