Anesthetic Monitoring #
Anesthetic monitoring is the process of continuously assessing a patient’s physiological status during anesthesia to ensure safety and effectiveness. It involves the observation and measurement of key parameters to detect and address potential complications early.
Purpose and Goals #
The primary objectives of anesthetic monitoring are:
- Ensuring adequate anesthesia: Maintaining an appropriate depth of anesthesia to prevent awareness or excessive sedation.
- Preserving vital functions: Monitoring cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological stability.
- Detecting complications: Identifying and responding to adverse events such as hypotension, hypoxia, or arrhythmias.
- Enhancing patient safety: Reducing the risk of anesthesia-related morbidity and mortality.
Key Monitoring Parameters #
Anesthetic monitoring typically includes:
- Cardiovascular monitoring: Heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiography (ECG) to assess heart function.
- Respiratory monitoring: Oxygen saturation (SpO₂), end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂), and respiratory rate to ensure proper ventilation.
- Neurological monitoring: Depth of anesthesia, using bispectral index (BIS) or other brain activity measures.
- Temperature monitoring: Minimizing hypothermia or hyperthermia.
- Fluid balance and metabolism: Urine output, blood glucose levels, and electrolyte balance.
Methods and Equipment #
Monitoring is conducted using various devices, including:
- Pulse oximeters for oxygen saturation
- Capnographs for end-tidal CO₂
- ECG monitors for heart rhythm analysis
- Non-invasive or invasive blood pressure monitors
- Temperature probes
- Neuromuscular function monitors
