Which of the following is the first treatment for an anesthetized patient experiencing bronchospasm: (A) Administer inhalational beta-2 agonists, (B) Administer intravenous epinephrine, (C) Administer additional anesthetic, (D) Administer neuromuscular blocking agent
Answer is C. Administer additional anesthetic(s) to deepen the level of anesthesia, is the first treatment for bronchospasm because it is quick to administer. Inhalational beta-2 agonists, volatile anesthetics, and intravenous drugs with beta-adrenergic activity (epinephrine) can all attenuate bronchospasm. Neuromuscular blocking agents, have no effect on bronchospasm. In fact, some neuromuscular blocking agents can precipitate a bronchospasm if they cause histamine release.