The nurse is assisting during surgery when a patient develops malignant hyperthermia. Which of the following protocols would the nurse be prepared to assist with as directed?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a life-threatening hypermetabolic reaction to certain anesthetic agents, most commonly seen with inhaled anesthetics and succinylcholine. The immediate priority in treating MH is to stop the triggering agents (anesthetics and muscle relaxants), cool the patient (with ice and/or a cooling blanket), administer dantrolene sodium (a medication that reduces muscle contractions by inhibiting calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum), and provide supportive care such as oxygenation and hydration. The surgery should not continue until the patient's condition has stabilized. Switching to a different anesthetic agent is not recommended because many different agents can trigger MH. Warming the patient is not appropriate as MH leads to hyperthermia.

The Nurse Is Assisting During Surgery When a Patient Develops