Can we reduce morphine use in elderly, proximal femoral fracture patients using a fascia iliac block?

Proximal femoral fractures are becoming increasingly common with an ageing population. Many patients have multiple comorbidities increasing their risk of opiate complications. 40 consecutive patients presenting with a proximal femoral fracture to a trauma centre in the UK were given either a Fascia Iliaca Block (FIB) with oral analgesia or just oral analgesia to control their pre-operative pain. Numeric pain scores and morphine consumption were used as outcome measures. Patients receiving a FIB had significant reduction in their pain scores compared to patients only receiving oral pain relief.
Source: Geriatric Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Feature Article Source Type: research