Anesthesia Key

Although apprehension is predictable in potentially blind patients awaiting surgery, this problem is often exacerbated in the elderly, whose coping mechanisms may be diminished by depression or dementia. With intraocular…

Low doses of IV anesthetics produce sedation, and high doses produce hypnosis (or unconsciousness) All IV anesthetics are sedative–hypnotics and produce dose-dependent central nervous system (CNS) depression. Dexmedetomidine is an…

An office-based anesthetic is defined as an anesthetic that is performed in an outpatient venue such as an office or procedure room that is not accredited as either an ambulatory…

The airway in neonates and infants presents unique features that require a clear understanding of the anatomy and physiology of airway structures. Laryngospasm and airway obstruction increase perioperative morbidity and…

Neuromuscular blocking agents are used to improve conditions for tracheal intubation, to provide immobility during surgery, and to facilitate mechanical ventilation. Anticholinesterases inhibit breakdown of acetylcholine and help restore neuromuscular…

Clinicians must develop a three-dimensional mental picture of the spinal anatomy so that when they contact bony structures during attempted epidural or spinal needle placement, they can redirect the needle…

Nonoperating room (NOR) locations are remote from a hospital’s main operating room sites. A significant number of the procedures performed in NOR locations require anesthesia or sedation. A three-step approach…

The standards for preoperative evaluation, intraoperative monitoring, and the continuous presence of a member of the anesthesia care team are no different from those for general or regional anesthesia. As…

The aging of America presents a medical and economic challenge to the entire health care system as older patients present for surgery in ever-increasing numbers. The aging process affects connective…