03_04_03 Neuromuscular blockers

Neuromuscular Blockers
Session Overview
Description
This session covers the key considerations when using neuromuscular blockers in the critically-ill patient. It will cover their main indications, monitoring and complications in the critical care unit.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the changes in physiology associated with critical illness affecting the choice of Neuromuscular Blocking Agent (NMBA)
• Describe the main indications and contraindications of NMBAs in ICU
• Explain the rationale behind the use of specific NMBAs in special circumstances
• Describe the monitoring, reversal and causes of prolonged neuromuscular block in ICU
• List the complications of NMBAs in ICU

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should complete:

• The Ideal Short Acting Muscle Relaxant (001-0785)

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) have an important but controversial role in the ICU.

Despite these agents being used less frequently in the modern ICU than in previous years, there remain strong indications for their use.

The altered physiology of the critically-ill patient and administration of concomitant drugs may affect the pharmacokinetics of NMBAs.

As a result, this may lead to an increase in adverse drug reactions and events. It is therefore important to understand these effects and their implications to allow for the safe use of NMBAs in the ICU.