General Anaesthesia & Intraoperative Care
Understand the components of anaesthesia and respond to changing physiology during surgery.
Quick revision ↓ Medical Dictionary
01Components of care
General anaesthesia combines unconsciousness with appropriate analgesia and physiological support; muscle relaxation is used when indicated. These components are related but distinct. A single medicine does not automatically provide every requirement, and the technique must match the patient and procedure.
02Induction
Induction can change airway patency, breathing and circulation rapidly. Preparation includes monitoring, oxygenation, intravenous access and a plan for adverse responses. Drug choice and administration require trained judgement, particularly in haemorrhage, shock or severe cardiac disease where reserve may be limited.
03Maintenance
Monitor depth-related clinical information, oxygenation, ventilation, circulation, temperature and drug delivery. Unexpected movement, haemodynamic change or equipment alarms need assessment in context. Consider surgical stimulation, blood loss and anaesthetic factors together rather than treating every change with the same drug.
04Position and protection
Positioning can affect ventilation, circulation and pressure on nerves or skin. Protect vulnerable areas and reassess access, lines and the airway after movement. Document relevant precautions, especially during long procedures or when baseline neurological or skin problems increase risk.
05Emergence
Plan withdrawal of anaesthetic drugs and confirm adequate ventilation and neuromuscular recovery. Assess airway reflexes and readiness for the planned recovery setting. A slow wake-up has several possible causes and should trigger a structured review of drugs, physiology and neurological concerns.
High-Yield Revision
- Hypnosis, analgesia and paralysis are distinct.
- Induction can rapidly alter circulation and breathing.
- Reassess airway and lines after positioning.
Common Pitfalls
- Treating every intraoperative pressure change identically.
- Assuming delayed awakening is always residual anaesthetic.
References & Further Reading
Read the relevant guideline sections alongside these original clinical teaching cases. Local pathways, available services and individual patient factors determine care.
Reference review: 29 September 2026. Consult current local protocols for prescribing, procedures and escalation.