Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

What must be ensured about all drugs administered during spinal anesthesia?

1. They must be mixed with alcohol

2. They are preservative free

3. They are available in multiple forms

4. They must be refrigerated

The correct answer is: They are preservative free

In the context of spinal anesthesia, it is crucial that all medications administered are preservative-free. This is due to the fact that the introduction of preservatives into the spinal canal can lead to neurotoxicity and serious complications. The intrathecal space is highly sensitive, and the presence of preservatives can cause adverse reactions, including inflammation or damage to the nervous tissue. Therefore, only preservative-free formulations are appropriate for spinal anesthesia procedures. Preservative-free medications are specifically formulated for use in sensitive areas such as the spinal column, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes. This is a standard practice followed in anesthesia to prevent any potential harm associated with preservatives in the medications used. Other aspects, such as the physical state of drugs or temperature, are not typically as critical in the effectiveness or safety of the anesthetic technique as ensuring the absence of harmful preservatives.