Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

Common complications associated with general anesthesia include respiratory depression, cardiovascular instability, and allergic reactions.

Respiratory depression can occur due to the medications used during general anesthesia, which can depress the central nervous system and lead to reduced breathing effort. It's critical to monitor the patient’s airway and breathing closely throughout the procedure to address any issues promptly.

Cardiovascular instability refers to fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate that may arise during anesthesia. Various factors, including the depth of anesthesia and the patient's underlying health conditions, contribute to these changes. Anesthesia personnel are trained to manage these fluctuations and ensure the patient's cardiovascular stability during the procedure.

Allergic reactions can happen with nearly any medication, including anesthetics. While they are relatively rare, they can range from mild to severe and can even lead to anaphylactic shock. Preoperative assessments often include historical inquiries about allergies to help mitigate the risk of such reactions.

In contrast, the other options listed include complications that are either less directly associated with general anesthesia or are not typically categorized as complications of the anesthetic process itself. For instance, insomnia and pain management pertains to postoperative concerns rather than direct complications of the anesthesia administered. Understanding the specific complications tied to general anesthesia is essential for appropriate preoperative and postoperative care.