Final answer:
When a patient under local anesthesia experiences symptoms such as circumoral numbness, blurred vision, and dizziness, the nurse should monitor vital signs, alert the team, and be prepared for interventions like lipid emulsion therapy for possible local anesthetic systemic toxicity.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a procedure under local anesthesia, if a patient complains of symptoms such as circumoral numbness, blurred vision, and dizziness, the preoperative nurse should immediately take action. Given these specific symptoms, it is possible that the patient is experiencing signs of systemic toxicity due to the local anesthetic agent, such as lidocaine, which works by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, leading to numbness and pain relief. It is critical that the surgical team, including nurses, surgeons, and anesthesia professionals, are aware of the patient's condition and can promptly intervene.
Following the safety protocols, members of the surgical team should be verbally confirming key information and reviewing concerns specific to the patient. The patient's vital signs should be closely monitored, particularly the oxygen saturation levels measured by a pulse oximeter, ensuring that any equipment necessary for airway management and respiration control is ready and available. If symptoms suggest local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), administration of intravenous lipid emulsion therapy may be indicated.
The immediate actions taken towards patient care in this scenario are critical and represent a collaborative effort, where clear communication and the ability to respond swiftly to adverse events are essential for patient safety.