Medical and dental professionals often use lidocaine, a common local anesthetic, in various medical and dental procedures to numb areas and relieve pain. While it is highly effective when used correctly, misuse of lidocaine can lead to serious consequences, not just to the patient but also the administering medical professional as it could result in the potential for medical license suspension in Texas.
In Texas, as in other states, regulations guide the use of lidocaine. Healthcare providers must follow strict guidelines regarding dosages, administration routes, and patient monitoring. The Texas Medical Board (TMB) oversees the compliance of these regulations and takes disciplinary actions against non-compliance, which can include warnings, fines, or even license suspension.
Consequences of lidocaine misuse
Misuse of lidocaine can occur in several forms, including over-prescription, incorrect dosing, or using it in non-approved circumstances. Such misuse can lead to:
- Health risks to patients: Incorrect application can lead to overdosage or systemic toxicity, manifesting as seizures, respiratory depression, or cardiac complications.
- Professional repercussions: If a patient is harmed due to negligence or misuse of lidocaine, the healthcare provider may face lawsuits, a damaged reputation, and scrutiny from the TMB.
- License suspension: In severe cases, especially where patient harm results from gross negligence, the TMB has the authority to suspend or revoke a medical license, severely impacting the professional’s career.
In a recent example, the TMB suspended the medical license of a Texas physician after the Board panel determined the physician “negligently overdosed” a patient on the medication. The overdose resulted in a seizure, near cardiac arrest, and neurological deficits.
Best practices to avoid misuse
To prevent the misuse of lidocaine and protect both their patients and their professional licenses, healthcare providers should keep up-to-date with the latest guidelines and training on the safe use of lidocaine. It is also wise to thoroughly assess the patient’s medical history and current condition before prescribing or administering lidocaine to help better ensure it is appropriate and safe for their specific situation. Maintain detailed records of all patient interactions involving lidocaine, including reasons for its use, dosage, administration method, and patient response. This documentation can serve an important role in the event of an audit or an investigation by the TMB.
Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication.