Development of a policy for patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents.
OBJECTIVE
To develop a policy to standardize the care of patients paralyzed with neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs).


METHODS
Criteria were developed to assess adherence to the policy. Categorical and continuous data were collected and analyzed.


RESULTS
Deficiencies were identified in frequency of train-of-four monitoring and in carrying out daily discontinuation of NMBAs to allow effects of paralysis to dissipate.


CONCLUSIONS
The policy was useful as an educational tool. A NMBA order form should be developed to improve adherence to the policy.
Earl
G
G
Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden, NJ, USA.
McMahon
M B
MB
Bartley
M
M
Mancini
W
W
Becker
S
S
D000328:Adult; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000451:nursing*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents / Q000145:classification / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic
D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents