During induction of anesthesia, a patient develops severe bronchospasm after administration of an inhalational agent. What is the most appropriate immediate intervention?
- A. Increase the inhalational agent concentration
- B. Administer intravenous epinephrine
- C. Administer a beta-agonist nebulizer treatment ✓
- D. Intubate the patient immediately
- E. Discontinue all anesthetic agents
Bronchospasm is characterized by the constriction of the smooth muscles surrounding the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing and reduced airflow. Inhalational agents can sometimes trigger bronchospasm, especially in patients with reactive airway disease or asthma. The immediate goal in managing bronchospasm is to relieve airway constriction and improve ventilation.
Beta-agonists, such as albuterol, are bronchodilators that work by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, leading to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and dilation of airways. This intervention is rapid and effective for acute bronchospasm.
Administering a beta-agonist nebulizer treatment is the most appropriate immediate intervention for managing acute bronchospasm during anesthesia induction.
