A Survey of Confidence Level and Education of Peripheral Nerve Blocks in Graduating Anesthesia Residents

Background and Objectives: The need for education on peripheral nerve blocks has increased significantly during the past decade. This survey assessed the level of exposure and confidence that graduating residents have with selected peripheral nerve blocks. Methods: All program directors of ACGME accredited anesthesiology programs were asked to distribute an on-line survey to their graduating residents. Information was gathered on the number and types of nerve blocks performed, technique(s) utilized, perceived comfort level in performing nerve blocks, perceived quality of regional anesthesia teaching during residency, and suggested areas for improvement. Results: 107 residents completed the survey. The majority completed greater than 60 nerve blocks. Femoral and interscalene blocks were the most frequently performed blocks, with 59% and 41% of residents performing more than 20 each, respectively. The least performed block was the lumber plexus block, with 9% performing 20 or more blocks. Most residents reported being “very ” to “somewhat” comfortable performing the blocks surveyed, with the exception of the lumber plexus block, where 64% were “not comfortable”. Overall, 78% of residents were "mostly-" to "very satisfied” with the quality of education received during residency. Conclusions: Many of the residents fulfilled the ACGME requirement, and expressed satisfaction with the education received during residency. However, the ACGME requirement for 40 nerve blocks may not be adequate for residents to feel comfortable in performing a full range of blocks upon graduation. Many residents felt that curriculums incorporating simulator training and didactic lectures would be helpful to improve the quality of resident education of peripheral nerve blocks.