Chapter 11 Anesthetics

Anesthetics Defined as a group of drugs used to block the transmission of nerve conduction so that the sensation of pain is not perceived by the brain Two classifications General Regional Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

General Anesthetics Produce balanced anesthesia Gas and injection Prevent pain during surgery Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Administration of Anesthetics Administered Gas or volatile liquid–inhalation Injection Surgery–secession of use Induction gas—first stage Intravenous injection—second stage Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Risks of Gas Anesthetics Most are explosive Nausea and vomiting Coughing Renal and liver toxicity Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Risks of Injected Anesthetics Blood pressure changes Emergence delirium Malignant hyperthermia Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Regional Anesthesia Local Extent anesthetized Surface area Drug concentration Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Adjuncts to General Anesthesia Narcotic opioid analgesics Benzodiazepines Antiemetics Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Presurgical Nursing Interventions Administer preanesthetic medications Provide safety. Monitor vital signs. Maintain NPO status. Educate the client. Promote confidence. Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.

Postsurgical Nursing Interventions Monitor for hypotension. Monitor for rapid pulse rate. Monitor for gastrointestinal upset. Monitor for urinary retention. Monitor for hyperthermia. Copyright 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning Inc. All rights reserved.