Which item would be used to deliver local anesthesia during an I&D procedure?

Which item would be used to deliver local anesthesia during an I&D procedure?

• A. Lidocaine with epinephrine
• B. Gauze pad
• C. Iodine swab
• D. Forceps

Answer: (A)

Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so the procedure can be done without pain. Lidocaine with epinephrine is the best choice here because lidocaine provides quick numbness, and adding epinephrine causes the blood vessels to constrict. This vasoconstriction minimizes bleeding in the small area being treated and helps the anesthesia last longer, giving a clearer field and more comfortable procedure for the patient. The other items don’t numb tissue: gauze pads are for cleaning and packing; iodine swabs are antiseptics to prep the skin; forceps are instruments for grasping or removing tissue. So lidocaine with epinephrine is the appropriate option to deliver local anesthesia during an I&D.

Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so the procedure can be done without pain. Lidocaine with epinephrine is the best choice here because lidocaine provides quick numbness, and adding epinephrine causes the blood vessels to constrict. This vasoconstriction minimizes bleeding in the small area being treated and helps the anesthesia last longer, giving a clearer field and more comfortable procedure for the patient. The other items don’t numb tissue: gauze pads are for cleaning and packing; iodine swabs are antiseptics to prep the skin; forceps are instruments for grasping or removing tissue. So lidocaine with epinephrine is the appropriate option to deliver local anesthesia during an I&D.