Epidural narcotics: mechanism of action and nursing implications

Patients who receive narcotics by epidural injection or infusion have the potential to develop pharmacological side effects. Theories of epidural pain control and a brief review of spinal anatomy and pain physiology are presented in this article. Narcotic medications used for epidural infusion are pharmacologically distinguished by their hydrophilic or lipophilic character. Important side effects of epidurally administered narcotics, clinical presentation, manifestations, and appropriate nursing interventions are discussed.