Single Shot Femoral Peripheral Nerve Block in Patients with Active Pseudomonas Infection

Risk Assessment for Peripheral Nerve Blocks with Active Infection

• A single shot femoral peripheral nerve block is not contraindicated in a patient with an active Pseudomonas infection, provided that proper aseptic technique is used and the block is performed at a site distant from the infection 1, 2

Considerations for Patients with Active Pseudomonas Infection

• Pseudomonas infections, particularly in diabetic patients, can cause rapidly progressive skin and soft tissue infections including ecthyma gangrenosum 4
• The block should be performed at an anatomical site distant from the active infection to minimize risk of spreading the infection 2
• While empiric therapy directed at Pseudomonas aeruginosa is usually unnecessary except for patients with specific risk factors for true infection with this organism 3

Practical Recommendations for Implementation

• Evaluate the location and extent of the Pseudomonas infection relative to the planned block site 2
• Ensure the patient is receiving appropriate antibiotic therapy for the Pseudomonas infection 5, 4