Final answer:
The term 'epidural anesthetic' combines 'epi-' meaning 'upon' or 'above', and 'dural' relating to the dura mater. This describes an anesthetic used to block pain by being injected above the dura mater, typically during surgeries or childbirth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term epidural anesthetic refers to a type of anesthesia that blocks pain in a particular region of the body. The root of the term is 'epi-' which means 'upon' or 'above' and 'dural', which refers to the dura mater, a tough membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Thus, an epidural anesthetic is an anesthetic injected into the space above the dura mater to block the transmission of pain signals during surgeries or childbirth.
Before the induction of anesthesia, it is crucial that team members like the nurse and anesthesia professional orally confirm the correct patient, procedure, and site, among other safety concerns. After the procedure, the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional will review aloud the key concerns for the patient's recovery and care to ensure a safe postoperative period.