Abstract
Background Although widely used in maternity care, the risks associated with local anaesthetic (LA) agents are commonly overlooked. The most serious avoidable risk associated with LA use is local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST). Incidence in maternity settings is known to be underestimated due to under-recognition and under-reporting. LAST is a considerable problem, with potential financial and medico-legal as well as implications for patient safety. Methods A standardised, anonymised questionnaire was used to evaluate LAST awareness among staff of all disciplines. Awareness was examined across four domains: LA safe maximum doses, signs and symptoms of toxicity, immediate management, and the antidote type and location. Findings Poor LAST awareness was identified across all staff disciplines, with scope for substantial improvement with an interprofessional educational intervention. Only 17% were aware of any guidelines relating to LAST. Conclusion There is a need for greater focus on interdisciplinary education and the importance of shared responsibility in optimising patient safety.
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