1. Chapter 11
Anesthetics

2. 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
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3. General Anesthetics Produce balanced anesthesia
Gas and injection
Prevent pain during surgery
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4. Administration of Anesthetics
Administered
Gas or volatile liquid–inhalation
Injection
Surgery–secession of use
Induction gas—first stage
Intravenous injection—second stage
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5. Risks of Gas Anesthetics
Most are explosive
Nausea and vomiting
Coughing
Renal and liver toxicity
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6. Risks of Injected Anesthetics
Blood pressure changes
Emergence delirium
Malignant hyperthermia
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7. Regional Anesthesia Local Extent anesthetized Surface area
Drug concentration
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8. Adjuncts to General Anesthesia
Narcotic opioid analgesics
Benzodiazepines
Antiemetics
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9. Presurgical Nursing Interventions
Administer preanesthetic medications
Provide safety.
Monitor vital signs.
Maintain NPO status.
Educate the client.
Promote confidence.
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10. 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.