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Chapter 25: General Anesthetics
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A new halogenated gas anesthetic has a blood:gas partition coefficient of 0.5 and a MAC value of 1%. Which prediction about this agent is most accurate? (Refer to Table 25–1 for comparison of agents.)
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(A) Equilibrium between arterial and venous gas tension will be achieved very slowly
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(B) It will be metabolized by the liver to release fluoride ions
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(C) It will be more soluble in the blood than isoflurane
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(D) Speed of onset will be similar to that of nitrous oxide
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(E) The new agent will be more potent than halothane
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The partition coefficient of an inhaled anesthetic is a determinant of its kinetic characteristics. Agents with low blood:gas solubility have a fast onset of action and a short duration of recovery. The new agent described here resembles nitrous oxide but is more potent, as indicated by its low MAC value. Not all halogenated anesthetics undergo significant hepatic metabolism or release fluoride ions. The answer is D.
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Which statement concerning the effects of anesthetic agents is false?
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(A) Bronchiolar smooth muscle relaxation occurs during halothane anesthesia
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(B) Chest muscle rigidity often follows the administration of fentanyl
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(C) Mild, generalized muscle twitching occurs at high doses of enflurane
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(D) Severe hepatitis has been reported after the use of methoxyflurane
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(E) The use of midazolam with inhalation anesthetics may prolong postanesthesia recovery
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Hepatitis after general anesthesia has been linked to use of halothane, although the incidence is very low (1 in 20,00–35,000). Hepatotoxicity has not been reported after administration of methoxyflurane or other inhaled anesthetics. However, fluoride release from prolonged use of methoxyflurane has caused renal insufficiency. The answer is D.
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