Which of the following should be monitored when using a tourniquet in a Bier Block?

• A. The patient's foot temperature
• B. The length of time the tourniquet is inflated
• C. The amount of anesthetic used
• D. The patient’s blood pressure

Answer: (B)

In a Bier Block (also known as intravenous regional anesthesia), a tourniquet is applied to isolate the surgical site from systemic circulation. One of the critical factors that must be monitored during this procedure is the length of time the tourniquet is inflated.

Monitoring the duration of tourniquet inflation is essential because prolonged use can lead to complications such as nerve damage, muscle ischemia, or thrombosis. The standard recommendation for tourniquet duration is typically within one to two hours, depending on the specific situation and guidelines. By ensuring that the tourniquet is not left inflated for too long, healthcare professionals can mitigate the risk of adverse effects while still providing effective regional anesthesia.

While other factors like foot temperature and blood pressure may have merit in assessing patient safety and comfort, they do not specifically address the risks associated with tourniquet application as directly as monitoring the duration of inflation does. The amount of anesthetic used, while relevant for effective anesthesia, is not related to the specific concerns associated with tourniquet duration in the context of potential complications during a Bier Block.