When should emergency drugs be prepared and available during anesthesia?

When should emergency drugs be prepared and available during anesthesia?

• A. Only before a major surgical procedure
• B. At all times during anesthesia
• C. Only when complications arise
• D. Before the animal is sedated

Answer: (B)

Emergency drugs should be prepared and available at all times during anesthesia because the nature of anesthesia involves inherent risks, and complications can arise unexpectedly. Ensuring that emergency drugs are readily accessible allows for immediate response to critical situations, such as adverse reactions to anesthetics, respiratory distress, or cardiac issues.

While it is essential to have these drugs prepared before major procedures or before sedation, the unpredictable nature of anesthesia means that emergencies can occur at any point. Therefore, the best practice is to maintain a constant state of readiness with emergency medications throughout the entire anesthesia period. This proactive approach enhances the safety of the patient and allows for timely intervention when necessary, ultimately improving outcomes and maintaining the overall well-being of the animal during the procedure.