Subject: Epidural Management
1. Topic-
Nursing management of epidural catheters and infusions.
 
2. Content-
Terminology such as dura mater, dural space, dermatome, spinal nerve roots, and CNS toxicity will be used.
 
3. Goals: Aims/Outcomes-
1. The RN will be able to safely care for a patient with an epidural infusion.
2. The RN will be able to intervene appropriately when the epidural catheter is severed.
3. The RN will be competent to care for and manage a patient's care when they have an epidural infusion.
 
4. Objectives-
1. Describe the anatomy of the epidural space.
2. List the indications for epidural placement.
3. List the contraindications for epidural placement.
4. Describe the technique of epidural placement.
5. Identify factors that affect epidural analgesia.
6. Discuss epidural management for the RN.
7. List potential complications and side effects of epidural analgesia.
 
5. Materials and Aids-
MS PowerPoint, computer, projection and screen.
Lumbar puncture tray, epidural tubing and a Gemstar pump for hands on inspection.
 
6. Procedures/Methods-

A. Introduction-

Inquire with the learning audience as to how many of them have had an epidural in the past. Audiences of female predominance will generally have someone who's had an epidural. Relate the experience to the content.
 

B. Development-

1. Physically model anatomic positioning on slide #6 when discussing dermatomes.
2. Physically model the rounded back position for epidural catheter insertion on slides #11 & 12.
 

C. Practice-

1. Pass around the lumbar puncture tray and catheter with slides 11 and 12.
2. Pass around the yellow port free epidural tubing when discussing the changing of tubing on slide #21.
 

Checking for understanding-

1. Probe for understanding at slide 4 by asking audience what the translation of "Dura Mater" is.
2. Question a learner by using the 3x5 index card teaching strategy on slide #6 about what a dermatome is.
 
7. Evaluation-
Complete presentation evaluation forms.
 

This Lesson Plan is available at (www.teacherjet.com)