Neuraxial Pharmacology 2025

This course provides CRNAs and anesthesia professionals with a deep dive into the pharmacology of local anesthetics used in central neuraxial techniques. Through engaging and clinically relevant content, participants will explore the physiochemical properties of local anesthetics, their mechanisms of action, and how these factors influence onset, duration, and potency. The course also addresses key considerations for spinal and epidural administration, including patient safety, drug selection, and the recognition and management of local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST). Designed to enhance both foundational knowledge and practical application, this series equips learners with the tools needed to optimize anesthetic outcomes and minimize complications in neuraxial anesthesia.

Learning Outcome(s):

Identify the mechanisms of and sites of actions of local anesthetics used during neuraxial anesthesia.
Analyze the pharmacological mechanisms of local anesthetics, including their interaction with sodium, potassium, and calcium channels, to differentiate their clinical effects, onset times, and potential toxicities in central neuraxial techniques.
Apply knowledge of local anesthetic properties, including pKa, lipid solubility, and protein binding, to optimize drug selection and dosing strategies for obstetric anesthesia, ensuring effective analgesia while minimizing systemic toxicity risks.

This program has been prior approved by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology for 1.50 Class A CE credits; Code Number 1045559; Expiration Date 3/31/2028.

AANA designates this program as meeting the criteria for up to 1.5 CE Credits in pharmacology/therapeutics.

Franklin McShane, DNP, CRNA

Accreditation Information:
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

AANA is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, CEP #10862.

Disclosure Statement:
Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content will be identified by the Nurse Planner within the activity. Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content has been mitigated.

Post-Test Attempt Notice:
A minimum passing score of 80% is required to pass this course. You have TWO opportunities to achieve a passing score. If you fail to achieve a passing score of 80%, you will not receive CE credit for this course.

Content Disclaimer:
The views, information, or opinions expressed within the videos and audio are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology.

Course content has been prepared by the presenter/developer, and each viewer agrees that the presenter/developer is solely responsible for the content and the accuracy thereof. The viewer agrees that the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology has no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content.

Refund Policy:
Continuing education activities are nonrefundable.