title: Factors contributing to a reduction in anaesthetic mortality.
abstract: A substantial improvement in anaesthetic mortality has been noted at Coronation Hospital; the reasons for this are discussed. The factors considered include lethal circumstances associated with the use of suxamethonium and fentanyl; improved ventilation monitoring and postanaesthetic surveillance; a technique in the resuscitation of bleeding patients aimed at conserving the intravascular contents; and the management of dehydrated patients. The dangers associated with the induction of anaesthesia in a head-up position are considered and alternated means are suggested.
mesh_terms: D000758:Anesthesia / Q000379:methods / Q000401:mortality*; D006801:Humans; D007385:Intermittent Positive-Pressure Ventilation / Q000379:methods; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000379:methods; D011184:Postoperative Period; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000379:methods; D012306:Risk; D012771:Shock, Hemorrhagic / Q000517:prevention & control; D013019:South Africa; D014839:Vomiting / Q000517:prevention & control; D014882:Water-Electrolyte Balance