Which local anesthetic is often considered for outpatient procedures due to its rapid onset?

Lidocaine is often considered a top choice for outpatient procedures due to its rapid onset of action. This characteristic is particularly important in many clinical settings, as quick pain relief allows procedures to begin without prolonged waiting times. Lidocaine typically takes effect within minutes and provides a suitable duration of anesthesia for many outpatient applications.

In contrast, while other local anesthetics like bupivacaine may provide longer-lasting numbness, their onset is slower, making them less ideal for procedures that require immediate anesthesia. Procaine and tetracaine, on the other hand, also do not match the rapid onset of lidocaine, with procaine being less effective in terms of duration and tetracaine having a slower onset as well. Thus, lidocaine's quick action makes it particularly valuable in outpatient settings where efficiency and patient comfort are paramount.