2025-12-22 – Weekly CRNA News : Best NMB monitors for CRNAs?

Last week’s forum discussions were rich with insights and practical advice. Members focused on the reliability of quantitative neuromuscular block monitors, sharing their experiences with different models. There was also a deep dive into optimizing first-case starts, highlighting strategies that improve workflow and patient care. Additionally, the community examined the evolution of anesthesia efficiency metrics, questioning their applicability and accuracy across different settings.


This Week’s Hot Topics

Quantitative NMB monitors you trust
Members are exploring which neuromuscular block monitors provide the most reliable data. It’s a critical discussion for improving patient safety and anesthesia outcomes.
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Optimizing first-case starts with CRNAs
This thread discusses strategies for ensuring smooth first-case starts, emphasizing the role of CRNAs in enhancing efficiency. It’s all about minimizing delays and optimizing surgical schedules.
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Hands-on pediatric ultrasound blocks CE
A conversation about continuing education opportunities focused on pediatric ultrasound blocks. It’s a chance to gain practical skills that directly impact patient care.
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Are these anesthesia efficiency numbers reasonable
Participants are debating the validity of current anesthesia efficiency metrics. This dialogue is crucial for understanding how these numbers reflect real-world practice.
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When did ASA adopt basic monitoring standards
A historical look at when the American Society of Anesthesiologists adopted basic monitoring standards, offering context for current practices.
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CE that measurably lowers error rates
This topic covers educational programs that have a proven impact on reducing errors in practice, a significant concern for improving patient safety.
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AIMS device feeds: time saved, noise added
An intriguing discussion on the trade-offs of integrating AIMS device feeds, balancing time savings against potential information overload.
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OSA outpatients: safer, smoother plans
Exploring strategies for managing outpatient procedures in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, focusing on safety and efficiency.
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Thanks for staying engaged with our community. Your insights and experiences make this forum a valuable resource for all CRNAs. Looking forward to another week of meaningful discussions.

Switching to TwitchView (EMG) has been the most reliable for us — works even with arms tucked, and it hasn’t slowed “first-case starts”; we stick the electrodes in pre-op so they’re ready, because waiting on setup used to kill our flow. If budget’s tight, TOFscan is okay, but calibrate before induction and keep the thumb free or you’ll overestimate recovery. Anyone negotiated better TetraGraph pricing lately, @ORlead?

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Quick plug for TOFscan when the hand’s free; otherwise EMG like TwitchView has been solid, but it can over-read if the ground isn’t stuck on dry skin. One step that helped our first-case starts: place electrodes and capture a baseline ‘pre-induction’ TOF, then aim for ≥0.95 before extubation — measure twice, extubate once. @kpatel2023 are you calibrating in pre-op or running default settings; curious what you’re seeing.

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