MAC Intraoperative Complications & Emergency Management 2

Question 1

What is the management of a patient who develops complete heart block with hemodynamic compromise intraoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Transcutaneous pacing and atropine IV

Answer

Complete heart block with hemodynamic compromise requires immediate transcutaneous pacing and atropine to restore adequate heart rate.

Question 2

What does 'cannot intubate, can oxygenate' indicate for airway management strategy?

Accepted Answer

Continue oxygenation via supraglottic airway and plan awake fiberoptic intubation

Answer

If oxygenation is maintained but intubation fails, a supraglottic airway can temporize while planning definitive management such as awake fiberoptic intubation.

Question 3

Which patient position reduces passive regurgitation risk during induction in a full-stomach patient?

Accepted Answer

Head-up (reverse Trendelenburg 20-30°)

Answer

Head-up positioning (reverse Trendelenburg) reduces passive regurgitation risk by using gravity to retain gastric contents below the esophagus.

Question 4

What is 'total spinal' anesthesia and its immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Unintentional intrathecal overdose causing respiratory arrest; treated with intubation and ventilation

Answer

Total spinal from unintentional intrathecal overdose causes phrenic nerve block and respiratory arrest requiring immediate intubation and ventilatory support.

Question 5

A patient develops severe bronchospasm during anesthesia. What is the first pharmacologic intervention?

Accepted Answer

Deepen anesthesia and administer inhaled albuterol

Answer

Deepening anesthesia reduces airway reactivity, and inhaled albuterol is the first-line bronchodilator for intraoperative bronchospasm.

MAC - Maintaining Anesthesia Certification Practice Test

MAC - Maintaining Anesthesia Certification Practice Test

MAC Intraoperative Complications & Emergency Management 2