Anaesthetics Flashcards
How long should someone not be eating for before and operation?
6 hours
How long should someone be completely NBM for before an operation?
2 hours (no clear fluids!)
Which type of induction is done if someone cannot be fasted?
Rapid sequence induction
Why is preoxygenation done before being put under?
This gives them a reserve of oxygen for the period between when they lose consciousness and are successfully intubated and ventilated (in case the anaesthetist has difficulty establishing the airway).
Which types of medication are given as pre-medication before the patient is put under and why?
Benzos
Opiates (alfentanyl)
Alpha-2-adrenergic agonists (clonidine)
These are given to relax the patient and reduce pain which makes the intubation easier
What is the biggest concern in rapid sequence induction (RSI) and how is this overcome?
Aspiration
Cricoid pressure
What is the triad of general anaesthesia?
Hypnosis
Muscle relaxation
Analgesia
What are the two most common options for IV general anaesthetic?
Propofol
Ketamine
What are the common options for inhaled general anaesthetic?
Sevoflurane
Desflurane (bad for environment)
Nitrous oxide (for children)
Name a depolarising muscle relaxant?
Suxamethonium
Name 2 non-depolarising muscle relaxants
Rocuronium and atracurium
Which agent can be used to reverse the effects of suxamethonium?
Neostigmine
Which agent can be used to reverse the effect of non-depolarising muscle relaxants?
Sugammadex
Which agents carry the largest risk of malignant hypothermia?
Volatile anaesthetics (isoflurane, sevoflurane and desflurane)
Suxamethonium
How is malignant hyperthermia treated?
Dantrolene
What are the symptoms of malignant hyperthermia?
Hyperthermia
Increased CO2 exhalation
Tachycardia
Muscle rigidity
Acidosis
Hyperkalemia
Where is the local anaesthetic injected in a spinal block?
Into the CSF in the sub arachnoid space after the point where the spinal cord ends (usually between L3 and 4 or L4 and 5
What is the difference between an epidural and a spinal block?
In an epidural, local is injected outside of the dura mater so not in the CSF.
In a spinal, the LA is injected into the CSF in the subarachnoid space