Simulation Scenario: Local Anesthetic Toxicity During Placement of Regional Nerve Block

Abstract This resource is a simulator scenario where local anesthetic toxicity develops after placement of a regional nerve block. The goal of this scenario is to teach medical students, residents, nurses, and other health professionals about the systemic effects of local anesthetic toxicity, as well as to teach team building during medical crisis. Local anesthetic toxicity is uncommon but potentially deadly. Because it is a rare occurrence, learners are oftentimes unexposed to it during training. This scenario is designed to teach about recognition and treatment of this problem in a safe environment. The scenario was modified after trial runs at our institution showed that too much emphasis was being placed on how to do the block. The scenario can be modified by users to match the level of trainee by stopping the scenario at mild, moderate, or severe toxicity. The scenario can also be modified for novice users by having the block in place and just injecting the drug into the catheter, thereby eliminating the need to know how to place the block.