Physiology and Pathophysiology in Anesthesia Flashcards
6 cards from real CAA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Physiology and Pathophysiology in Anesthesia flashcards as text
How does anesthesia affect the cardiovascular system?
Answer: Decreases blood pressure due to vasodilation
Most anesthetic agents cause vasodilation and myocardial depression, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.
Which organ system is most affected by anesthetic agents during surgery?
Answer: Respiratory system
The respiratory system is heavily influenced by anesthesia, as many agents depress respiratory function and require ventilatory support.
What is the primary cause of malignant hyperthermia?
Answer: Uncontrolled calcium release in muscle cells
Malignant hyperthermia is caused by a genetic mutation that results in excessive calcium release in muscle cells in response to certain anesthetics.
Why do some anesthetic agents cause respiratory depression?
Answer: They depress the central respiratory centers
Many anesthetics act on the central nervous system by depressing respiratory centers in the brainstem, reducing respiratory rate and tidal volume.
What is the physiological response to hypoxia during anesthesia?
Answer: Increase in heart rate and respiratory rate
Hypoxia triggers an increase in heart rate and respiratory rate to compensate for decreased oxygen levels in the blood.
Which physiological factor determines how quickly an inhaled anesthetic takes effect?
Answer: Blood-gas partition coefficient
The blood-gas partition coefficient determines the solubility of an anesthetic in blood, affecting its onset of action.