Free MAC Pharmacology & Physiology in Anesthesia Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which receptor type is primarily targeted by general anesthetics?

Accepted Answer

GABA-A receptors

Answer

General anesthetics primarily exert their effects by enhancing the activity of GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system. These receptors are inhibitory, and their potentiation by anesthetics leads to increased chloride ion influx, hyperpolarizing neurons and reducing neuronal excitability. This mechanism contributes to the sedation, hypnosis, and anxiolysis characteristic of general anesthesia.

Question 2

What is the primary effect of opioids in anesthesia?

Accepted Answer

Analgesia

Answer

Opioids are a class of drugs whose primary effect in anesthesia is analgesia, meaning pain relief. They achieve this by binding to specific opioid receptors in the central nervous system, modulating pain perception and response. This potent analgesic property is crucial for managing pain during surgical procedures and ensuring patient comfort.

Question 3

Which inhaled anesthetic has the fastest onset?

Accepted Answer

Desflurane

Answer

Desflurane has the fastest onset among common inhaled anesthetics due to its very low blood-gas partition coefficient. This low solubility means that it is minimally absorbed into the blood and tissues, allowing it to rapidly reach the brain and exert its anesthetic effects. Consequently, patients achieve anesthesia quickly and also recover rapidly once administration is stopped.

Question 4

Which physiological parameter is most affected by propofol?

Accepted Answer

Blood pressure

Answer

Propofol is well-known for its significant dose-dependent cardiovascular depressant effects, with the most prominent being a reduction in blood pressure. This hypotensive effect results from decreased systemic vascular resistance and myocardial contractility. Therefore, blood pressure is a critical physiological parameter that must be closely monitored during propofol administration.

Question 5

Which local anesthetic is most cardiotoxic?

Accepted Answer

Bupivacaine

Answer

Bupivacaine is recognized as the most cardiotoxic local anesthetic due to its strong binding to cardiac sodium channels and slow dissociation rate. This can lead to severe cardiac arrhythmias and myocardial depression, especially in cases of accidental intravascular injection. Its cardiotoxicity is a significant concern compared to other local anesthetics like lidocaine.

MAC - Maintaining Anesthesia Certification Practice Test

MAC - Maintaining Anesthesia Certification Practice Test

Free MAC Pharmacology & Physiology in Anesthesia Questions and Answers