Continuous Nerve Block Catheter Duration — FRCA Final MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateRegional AnaesthesiaContinuous Nerve Block Catheter DurationFRCA Final

A 35-year-old man (ASA I, 70 kg) sustains a degloving injury to the right hand requiring prolonged microsurgery. An infraclavicular brachial plexus block catheter is placed for continuous postoperative analgesia. What is the maximum recommended duration for a continuous peripheral nerve block catheter?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — 72 hours

Continuous peripheral nerve block (CPNB) catheters are typically maintained for 48-72 hours for postoperative analgesia. Beyond 72 hours, the risk of catheter-related infection increases. There is no absolute maximum duration in guidelines, and some complex pain situations may warrant longer use with careful monitoring for infection (daily site inspection, temperature monitoring, inflammatory markers). The infusion typically uses 0.125-0.2% ropivacaine or levobupivacaine at 5-10 mL/hr, with patient-controlled boluses.

Reference: RCOA – 2023 – Regional anaesthesia module; ASRA – 2020 – Continuous peripheral nerve blocks