itching after cesarean section

In a way. It's likely from the Duramorph used in the epidural. This a very common side effect. There may be an order for Benadryl.

Durmorph is infamous for terrible itching later on.

I have found this too. Ditto on the Benadryl & Nubain. I like to use Benadryl if they're itching but pain is well-controlled by Duramorph. If they're itching but still hurting (or nauseous) I go with Nubain.

I don't think we use Demerol AT ALL where I am. I remember when I worked med-surg (different hospital) we gave Dem/Phen like it was water. I haven't done that at all where I am now.

We use Benadryl.

I never ever heard of Nubain until I came on allnurses.

We use Demerol occasionally but not for itching.

steph

Nubain is GREAT for duramorph itching. we add about 15-20mg to a liter bag and let it run for the duration of that bag. It works great. But we also have (obviously) to look for some reversal of the beneficial effects on the duramorph's pain control. That is why I use Benedryl first. But Nubain is in the MDA orders, if Benedryl is not helpful. Can't say we ever used Demerol for itching, but we have in the past, used it for post partum shaking that is persistent and troublesome. Only needed bout 12.5 mg to do the trick. We just don't use it anymore on our unit.

We use Narcan after the Benadryl . . . . It is closely related to Nubain so I guess I'm actually not that far off from the rest of you.

I'm very careful with Narcan - that is what I spilled on my hands 5 minutes prior to my first seizure (no, I did not have narcotics in my system) - although EVERYONE and their uncle says there is no connection. I still wear gloves around Narcan though . . .

steph