In: Nursing
Lidocaine (C14H22N2O) is a commonly used anesthetic. As a preliminary step when applying an IV to a child, lidocaine may be administered in order that the child not “feel” the pain caused by the insertion of the IV. In order to introduce the lidocaine in a way that will be localized but will not be painful, iontophoresis may be used. In this process, two electrodes are placed on the child’s skin; one near to the site of the IV and the other several cm away. Ionized lidocaine, C14H23N2O + , is placed under one of the electrodes. A DC current of 1.2mA is the applied to the electrodes.
a. To which electrode, positive or negative, should the ionized lidocaine be applied? EXPLAIN your answer. [POSITIVE]
b. For how much time should the iontophoresis continue in order that 5mg of the anesthetic will be introduced into the child?
c. What DOSE of lidocaine had been applied during this treatment?