12 Questions
What are the aspects of the patient's medical history that are relatively more important to the anaesthetist?
Cardiovascular and respiratory systems
Name some symptoms of cardiovascular problems that must be sought in all patients during the anaesthetic assessment.
Ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, hypertension, conduction defects, arrhythmias, peripheral vascular disease
Why are patients with a proven history of myocardial infarction (MI) at a greater risk during the perioperative period?
They are at risk of perioperative reinfarction, related to the time interval between infarct and surgery.
How long may elective surgery need to be delayed for a patient with an uncomplicated MI and a normal exercise test?
6-8 weeks
What is one of the most significant indicators of perioperative complications according to the text?
Heart failure
How is the severity of heart failure best described according to the text?
Using a recognized scale like the New York Heart Association classification
What are the consequences of untreated or poorly controlled hypertension during anesthesia?
Exaggerated cardiovascular responses and increased risk of myocardial and cerebral ischemia.
What is the recommended action for severe hypertension (SBP > 180mmHg, DBP > 109mmHg) before elective surgery?
Postpone elective surgery due to the significant risk of myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and intracerebral hemorrhage.
What is the New York Heart Association classification for cardiac function when patients can perform activities requiring >7mets?
Class I
What specific activities can a patient classified as NYHA Class I perform?
Jog/walk at 5 mph, ski, play squash or basketball, shovel soil.
What is the NYHA classification for cardiac disease resulting in slight limitation of physical activity?
Class II
What is the recommended action if an acute upper respiratory tract infection is present before anesthesia and surgery?
Postpone anesthesia and surgery unless it is for a life-threatening condition.
Learn about the importance of the anaesthetic assessment, which includes taking a full history, conducting examinations, and ordering appropriate investigations. This quiz focuses on key features relevant to anaesthetists in evaluating patients for surgery.
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