BACKGROUND: The intravenous administration of lidocaine for patients with chronic neuropathic pain is well documented in the literature. However, little is known about the role of the nurse caring for patients receiving the infusion. AIM: The purpose of this systematic review was to examine and describe common side effects associated with the intravenous administration of lidocaine to patients with chronic neuropathic pain and outline nursing care described in an effort to develop evidence-based protocols for care. METHOD: A comprehensive search of databases was completed and yielded eleven (n = 11) articles and one care protocol for analysis. RESULTS: Evidence was appraised and findings suggest intravenous lidocaine has a low risk of causing adverse events, however patients should be monitored closely. CONCLUSIONS: Nursing care focuses on pain assessment, close observation and intervention if neurological changes occur.
BACKGROUND: The intravenous administration of lidocaine for patients with chronic neuropathic pain is well documented in the literature. However, little is known about the role of the nurse caring for patients receiving the infusion. AIM: The purpose of this systematic review was to examine and describe common side effects associated with the intravenous administration of lidocaine to patients with chronic neuropathic pain and outline nursing care described in an effort to develop evidence-based protocols for care. METHOD: A comprehensive search of databases was completed and yielded eleven (n = 11) articles and one care protocol for analysis. RESULTS: Evidence was appraised and findings suggest intravenous lidocaine has a low risk of causing adverse events, however patients should be monitored closely. CONCLUSIONS: Nursing care focuses on pain assessment, close observation and intervention if neurological changes occur.