Final answer:
Desflurane and isoflurane are inhaled anesthetics known to be irritating or have a foul smell, while sevoflurane and halothane are generally not considered as such. Halothane and sevoflurane are known for their nonirritating properties with halothane also favored for its pleasant smell before its use was diminished due to health concerns among operating room personnel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inhaled anesthetics that are considered irritating or have a foul smell include desflurane and isoflurane. Desflurane is known for its pungent smell and can cause respiratory irritation, leading to coughing during the induction of anesthesia. Isoflurane also has a pungent odor and can irritate the airways; however, it is less stimulating to the airways compared to desflurane, but still more so than sevoflurane and halothane. Sevoflurane and halothane are generally not considered to be irritating or foul-smelling anesthetics. Halothane, while it has been largely replaced by newer agents due to health concerns among operating room personnel, used to be favored for its nonirritating properties and a more pleasant smell. Sevoflurane also has a nonirritating smell and is often used in pediatric anesthesia for this reason.