You can use bacteriostatic saline as an alternative. Some say it works well. In my experience it just hasn't "numbed" quite as well as Lidocaine. I have also found that the "Caines" used for dental work contain Epi (usually why some people get palpitations) which is not in the Lidocaine we use for PICCs.
Kathleen Witt, RN, BSN Nutrition Support Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas 214-345-7468 [EMAIL PROTECTED] -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of DAVID LONGSETH Sent: Friday, May 19, 2006 5:12 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Lidocaine allergy and PICC's Are there any alternatives to Lidocaine for skin anesthesic if a patient says she's "allergic" to Lidocaine or similar medications? I ask because a few weeks ago I needed to place a line in a patient who had Novocaine and Cocaine listed as allergies in her chart. She said that she got 'palpitations' when receiving Novocaine for dental work. She,I and the Pharmacist talked it over and felt it would be OK to use Lido for the PICC placement given the relatively small amount used,the minimal absorption of a dermal dose and the fact that she was in MICU and on the monitors. Thanks D L'As de Piques The information contained in this message and any attachments is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you are prohibited from copying, distributing, or using the information. Please contact the sender immediately by return e-mail and delete the original message from your system.
