Pain management after total knee arthroplasty: a case–control study of continuous nerve block therapy.

Background: Continuous femoral nerve block infusions (CFNBIs) have been found to both decrease patient postoperative pain and improve postoperative joint mobilization, both of which impact patient satisfaction, outcome, and length of stay. When we began the use of CFNBIs, we needed to create a policy, process, standing order form, and staff education plan as well as a means to maximize therapy efficacy and believed that a research study would best meet those needs.

Purpose: To evaluate the patient response to the institution of CFNBI therapy, identify process improvement areas, and suggest areas for future study.