NBCRNA Obstetric Anesthesia

Question 1

What is the preferred anesthetic technique for cesarean delivery in most elective cases?

Accepted Answer

Spinal anesthesia

Answer

Spinal anesthesia is preferred for elective cesarean delivery because it provides rapid onset, dense block, avoids airway instrumentation, and allows the mother to remain awake.

Question 2

At approximately what gestational age is an obstetric patient considered to have a full stomach and at increased aspiration risk during anesthesia?

Accepted Answer

14 weeks

Answer

From approximately 14 weeks gestation, progesterone-induced lower esophageal sphincter relaxation and uterine compression of the stomach increase aspiration risk.

Question 3

Which vasopressor is currently recommended as the first-line treatment for spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery?

Accepted Answer

Phenylephrine

Answer

Phenylephrine is the first-line vasopressor for spinal hypotension in obstetrics because it maintains uteroplacental blood flow better than ephedrine and is associated with less fetal acidosis.

Question 4

What dermatome level of sensory blockade is required for adequate spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery?

Accepted Answer

T4

Answer

A sensory block to T4 (nipple line) is required for cesarean delivery to cover peritoneal manipulation and uterine exteriorization.

Question 5

Which local anesthetic is most commonly used for spinal anesthesia in obstetric patients undergoing cesarean delivery?

Accepted Answer

Bupivacaine 0.75% hyperbaric

Answer

Hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.75% is the most widely used spinal local anesthetic for cesarean delivery due to its reliable dense block, predictable spread, and long duration.

NBCRNA - National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists Practice Test

NBCRNA - National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists Practice Test

NBCRNA Obstetric Anesthesia