Revision - Anaesthetics & Cardiology Flashcards
IV vs IM naloxone in opioid overdose?
IV > IM if the patient has IV access
If no IV access then IM naloxone
How long prior to surgery should diclofenac be stopped?
48h before
How long prior to major surgery should aspirin be stopped?
7 days
How long prior to elective surgery with spinal anaesthesia should aspirin be stopped?
Can continue aspirin throughout the perioperative period as it does not pose a significant risk for spinal or epidural haematoma.
When patients are positioned prone for lumbar decompression surgery, what is the most appropriate anaesthesia technique?
GA with ETT intubation
What type of anaesthesia is often preferred in patients with severe COPD?
Regional anaesthesia e.g. spinal or epidural (where possible e.g. elective knee surgery)
Is there a higher risk of bleeding with COX-1 or COX-2 inhibitors?
COX-2 inhibitors
Mx of diabetics patients prior to elective surgery with poorly controlled blood glucose levels?
Delay surgery until satisfactory glycemic management is achieved.
Role of pre-oxygenation?
Preoxygenation replaces nitrogen in the functional residual capacity of the lungs with oxygen, extending the time before arterial oxygen desaturation occurs during periods of apnea, such as during intubation.
In patients with a recent MI, what investigation is advisable prior to surgery?
A preoperative coronary angiography.
To assess the state of coronary arteries and guide further management, including the possibility of revascularisation, which might reduce the risk of perioperative cardiac events.
Post-op complications can be classified by time.
What defines a:
a) immediate
b) early
c) late/long-term complications?
a) <24h
b) <30 days
b) >30 days (or after discharge)
What is atelectasis?
A common post-op complication in which basal alveolar collapse can lead to respiratory difficulty.
Cause of post-op atelectasis?
It is caused when airways become obstructed by bronchial secretions.
When should atelectasis be suspected?
In the presentation of dyspnoea and hypoxaemia around 72 hours postoperatively.
Mx of post-op atelectasis?
1) positioning the patient upright
2) chest physio & breathing exercises
What should the skin be prepared with to reduce the risk of surgical site infections?
alcoholic chlorhexidine
What complication are patients post pneumonectomy at risk of?
Pulmonary oedema: loss of lung volume makes these patients very sensitive to fluid overload.
How can a post-op anastamotic leak present?
Generalised sepsis causing mediastinitis or peritonitis depending on site of leak.
What surgery is the long thoracic at risk of being damaged in?
Axillary node clearance
In post-op ileus, does hypovolaemia and electrolyte disturbances occur before or after N&V?
Before