Question 1

Intrathecal administration of anaesthetic produces:&#10;A) profound anaesthesia with a small dose.&#10;B) a mild analgesic effect with a small dose.&#10;C) analgesia via the nerve roots that communicate with the epidural space.&#10;D) no analgesic effect; this route of administration is inappropriate to achieve analgesia.

Accepted Answer

Intrathecal administration of anaesthetic produces profound anaesthesia with a small dose due to the direct injection of the anaesthetic into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the spinal cord, resulting in a concentrated effect on the nerves responsible for pain and sensation. This route of administration has much faster onset and greater potency than other routes of administration.

Question 2

The rate of absorption of inhaled anaesthetic into the bloodstream is dependent on the ________ of the gas.&#10;A) rate of osmosis&#10;B) partial pressure&#10;C) volume&#10;D) surfactant levels

Accepted Answer

The rate of absorption of inhaled anaesthetic into the bloodstream is dependent on the partial pressure of the gas. This is because gases move from an area of high partial pressure to an area of low partial pressure, which determines the speed at which the anaesthetic is absorbed into the bloodstream. The other options listed are not relevant factors in the rate of absorption of inhaled anaesthetic.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a contraindication for the use of nitrous oxide as an inhalational anaesthetic?&#10;A) Pneumothorax&#10;B) Surgical procedures involving the middle ear&#10;C) Tachycardia&#10;D) Intestinal obstruction

Accepted Answer

Pneumothorax and surgical procedures involving the middle ear can cause pressure changes that can be affected by nitrous oxide. Intestinal obstruction can potentially lead to the expansion of the intestines which can lead to ruptures when exposed to nitrous oxide. However, tachycardia is not a contraindication for nitrous oxide as it is not affected by the use of this anaesthetic.

Deck 42: General Anaesthesia