Assessment of Regional Anaesthesia Exposure and Utilisation by Anaesthetists in Nigeria

Background: Although regional anaesthesia (RA) is a vital component of modern anaesthesia, it is underutilised and RA exposure appears to be limited in Nigeria. Aim: This study explored the exposure and use of RA among anaesthesia residents in Nigeria. Material: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study. A simple, convenience-based sampling was employed. Participants were contacted via Google forms using a self-administered structured questionnaire. The self-reported levels of access, exposure, competence, practice, and mentorship were assessed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise results. Results: From 180 questionnaires, 129 were returned, i.e., 71.6% response rate. Of the responder’s centers, 92 (71.3%) were fully accredited, while 35 (27.1%) had partial accreditation. Daily exposure to SA and EA was 64 (49.6%) and 11 (8.5%), respectively, with 120 (93.0%) and 36 (27.9%) reporting competence. Daily or weekly exposure to PNBs was ≤ 5% in all categories. Four (3.1%) had competence in LLNB. Spinal and epidural kits were accessible to 126 (97.7%) and 85 (65.9%), respectively, while 6 (4.6%) had nerve stimulators and 11 (8.5%) had ultrasound. Mentorship was universal i.e., 129 (100%) for neuraxial techniques, but 9 (6.9%) for PNBs. Conclusion: The study highlights gaps in regional anaesthesia practice in Nigeria. Despite universal access to neuraxial blocks, limited exposure to PNBs reduces proficiency. Improving RA services requires access to equipment, mentorship, simulation, and curriculum reforms aligning with global standards.