Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

For what purpose is dextrose with insulin administered in a case of malignant hyperthermia?

1. To stabilize blood pressure

2. To prevent renal failure

3. To provide energy

4. To reverse a critical condition

The correct answer is: To provide energy

Dextrose with insulin is administered in cases of malignant hyperthermia primarily to provide energy to the cells during a metabolic crisis. Malignant hyperthermia is a severe reaction to certain anesthetics that leads to a rapid increase in metabolic rate, causing a dangerous rise in body temperature and changes in muscle metabolism. The administration of insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells, allowing them to utilize dextrose effectively for energy production. In this context, dextrose serves as an exogenous source of glucose, which is crucial during the hypermetabolic state that occurs during malignant hyperthermia. Additionally, insulin not only promotes glucose uptake but also encourages the conversion of excess glucose into glycogen in the liver, helping to mitigate the severe metabolic derangements that happen during this critical condition. This combined approach aids in correcting the metabolic acidosis that may develop and helps stabilize the patient’s condition during treatment.