Comparison of visual and verbal aid to assist patient positioning in performing subarachnoid block: An observational study

Comparison of visual and verbal aid to assist patient positioning in performing subarachnoid block: An observational study - Background: Proper patient positioning is crucial for identifying anatomical landmarks during the subarachnoid block (SAB) procedure. Enhancing patient comprehension of the required posture through additional aids may improve procedural efficiency and outcomes. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of visual aids combined with verbal instructions (Group B) versus verbal instructions alone (Group A) in assisting patient positioning during SAB. The primary objectives were to evaluate procedural time and the anaesthesiologist's satisfaction with patient positioning. Secondary objectives included the number of attempts required and the first-pass success rate. Materials and Methods: This observational study included 142 patients aged ≥18 years scheduled for elective or emergency surgery under SAB in the lateral decubitus position. Patients were randomized to receive either verbal instructions (Group A) or visual aids with verbal instructions (Group B) for positioning. The procedural duration, anaesthesiologist satisfaction scores, number of attempts, and first-pass success rates were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square tests, Student’s t-test, and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: The mean procedural time was significantly shorter in Group B (320 seconds) compared to Group A (401 seconds) (p = 0.001). The proportion of patients requiring ≥3 attempts was lower in Group B (4.2%) than in Group A (22.5%) (p = 0.028). Anaesthesiologist satisfaction scores regarding patient positioning were significantly higher in Group B compared to Group A (p = 0.045). Conclusion: Incorporating simple visual aids alongside verbal instructions enhances patient positioning, leading to reduced procedural time, fewer attempts, and higher satisfaction among anaesthesiologists during SAB procedures. Keywords: Patient positioning, Visual aid, Subarachnoid block, Spinal anaesthesia, Anaesthesiologist satisfaction.