Inhalation Agents

Question 1

What are characteristics of patient’s under general anesthesia?

Answer 1

Do not have blink/swallow reflexes; cannot breathe or maintain airway independently

Question 2

Is nitrous oxide an example of a volatile or non-volatile gas?

Answer 2

Non-volatile gas

Question 3

Is Sevoflurane an example of a volatile or non-volatile anesthetic gas?

Answer 3

Volatile gas

Question 4

Volatile anesthetic gases can cause what adverse effects?

Answer 4

Laryngospasm, malignant hyperthermia

Question 5

Non-volatile gases like nitrous oxide increase risk of what adverse effect?

Answer 5

PONV (Post-operative nausea and vomiting)

Question 6

Name the adverse effects that may be associated with all inhalation agents:

Answer 6

1. respiratory depression
2. airway obstruction
3. high or low BP
4. emergence delirium
5. PONV
6. dysrhythmias
7. organ toxicity
8. motor blockade from inadequate reversal