Residual neuromuscular blockade in the immediate postoperative period.
Neuromuscular blocking agents are among the most potent and dangerous drugs administered in the course of a general anesthetic. Their residual actions can have profound effects on a patient's ability to adequately ventilate. Understanding the basics of their actions and the methods of monitoring the level of neuromuscular blockade will assist the PACU nurse in diagnosing the cause of postoperative muscle weakness and hypoventilation. This article will review the mechanisms of action and monitoring of neuromuscular blocking agents, as well as provide a basic overview of postoperative complications involving hypoventilation and motor weakness.
Kervin
Matthew W
MW
Nursing Anesthesia Program, EB-221, School of Nursing, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
D000465:Algorithms; D006801:Humans; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D016528:Postanesthesia Nursing; D012119:Respiration
D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents