Final answer:
When suturing a small wound, a nurse would expect the use of local anesthetics, which allow the patient to stay conscious while providing numbness to the specific area.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a small wound that requires suturing in an emergency department, the nurse would anticipate the use of local anesthetics. Local anesthetics provide a reversible loss of sensation in a specific area of the body, allowing the patient to remain conscious while the wound is being sutured. Unlike general anesthetics that lead to a loss of consciousness, a local anesthetic is sufficient for minor procedures such as suturing a small wound.
Before the administration of anesthesia, the nurse, surgeon, and anesthesia professional will review the patient's condition and confirm the plan for anesthesia and recovery. Injectable anesthetics like lidocaine or bupivacaine are common choices, which the anesthesia professional might choose to use. These are typically administered directly into the tissue surrounding the wound.