Name of the Procedure:

Injection, fentanyl citrate, 0.1 mg
Common name(s): Fentanyl injection
Medical terms: Fentanyl citrate administration, Intravenous (IV) fentanyl injection

Summary

Injection of fentanyl citrate is a medical procedure where a precise dose of the opioid analgesic fentanyl is administered intravenously. This is commonly used to manage severe pain in medical settings.

Purpose

Fentanyl injection is used to manage acute and severe pain that cannot be controlled with less potent analgesics. It is often administered during surgeries, post-operative care, or in situations involving severe trauma or cancer pain.

Indications

• Severe acute pain
• Post-operative pain management
• Pain during and after surgical procedures
• Severe trauma pain
• Cancer-related pain that is unmanageable with other analgesics

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Inform healthcare providers of any allergies, current medications, and medical history.
• Pre-procedure assessments may include vital signs, blood tests, or a review of the patient's pain levels.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually lying down.
2. An intravenous (IV) line is established if not already in place.
3. A healthcare professional administers 0.1 mg of fentanyl citrate via the IV line.
4. Continuous monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure, is conducted throughout the procedure.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile syringes and needles
• Fentanyl citrate solution
• IV line and associated supplies
• Monitoring equipment for vital signs

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• The procedure involves the use of fentanyl, an opioid analgesic that provides pain relief and sedation.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few minutes, but monitoring may continue for 30 minutes to 1 hour to ensure patient safety and effective pain management.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center where monitoring and emergency equipment are readily available.

Personnel

• Physician or specialized nurse (anesthetist, nurse practitioner)
• Support staff, such as registered nurses or medical technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common: Nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, constipation
• Rare: Severe respiratory depression, allergic reactions, low blood pressure, dependence or abuse potential

Benefits

• Rapid and effective relief from severe pain
• Improvement in patient comfort and ability to participate in rehabilitation or recovery activities
• Reduction of stress and anxiety related to pain

Recovery

• Continuous monitoring for side effects in a controlled environment
• Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the effects have worn off
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to adjust pain management plans or monitor for potential side effects

Alternatives

• Other opioid or non-opioid analgesics
• Non-pharmacological interventions like physical therapy or acupuncture
• Pros: Alternatives may carry fewer risks of respiratory depression or abuse potential.
• Cons: May be less effective in severe pain management compared to fentanyl.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel immediate pain relief and mild sedation or euphoria.
• Some may experience dizziness, nausea, or mild disorientation.
• Pain management strategies, including further medication or comfort measures, will be provided as needed.