Management of pharmacologically induced neuromuscular blockade using peripheral nerve stimulation

Currently, many critically ill patients are treated with neuromuscular blocking agents to facilitate endotracheal intubation, mechanical ventilation, and manage confused, combative, head injured, and status epileptus patients. To prevent persistent pharmacologically induced paralysis, the aide of a peripheral nerve stimulator and clinical indicators may help determine the minimal effective drug dose to facilitate safe neuromuscular blockade. The purpose of this article is to provide nursing clinicians the essential knowledge to manage patients with neuromuscular blockade effectively using peripheral nerve stimulation monitoring.