Fundamentals & Core Concepts Flashcards

During laryngoscopy and intubation, the hemodynamic response is primarily mediated by:

Answer: Sympathoadrenal activation causing tachycardia and hypertension

Laryngoscopy stimulates sympathoadrenal reflexes via the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, causing catecholamine release and resulting in hypertension, tachycardia, and increased myocardial oxygen demand.

The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is used to determine:

Answer: The pH of a buffer solution based on pKa and concentration ratio

The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation (pH = pKa + log[base/acid]) describes the relationship between pH and the ionization state of weak acids and bases in solution.

Which of the following statements about propofol pharmacokinetics is CORRECT?

Answer: It undergoes significant first-pass pulmonary metabolism

Propofol undergoes significant first-pass uptake and metabolism in the lungs, which contributes to its rapid offset after bolus administration.

The Trendelenburg position is CONTRAINDICATED or requires extreme caution in patients with:

Answer: Elevated intracranial pressure

Trendelenburg position increases ICP by impeding cerebral venous drainage due to increased intrathoracic pressure and venous congestion, making it hazardous in patients with intracranial hypertension.

Which volatile anesthetic has the HIGHEST risk of triggering malignant hyperthermia (MH)?

Answer: All potent halogenated volatiles carry equal MH risk

All potent halogenated volatile anesthetics (halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane, desflurane) are equally capable of triggering MH in susceptible individuals via ryanodine receptor activation.

In a patient with full stomach, rapid sequence induction (RSI) with cricoid pressure (Sellick maneuver) is intended to:

Answer: Occlude the esophagus to prevent passive regurgitation of gastric contents

Sellick maneuver applies backward pressure on the cricoid cartilage to compress the esophagus against the cervical vertebrae, preventing passive regurgitation during the period of lost airway reflexes.

Which intravenous anesthetic agent is most appropriate for patients with coronary artery disease requiring hemodynamic stability during induction?

Answer: Etomidate, due to its minimal cardiovascular depression

Etomidate produces minimal changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output, making it the preferred induction agent when hemodynamic stability is critical.