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What are the physiologic effects at 1 MAC of volatile anesthetic?

1) Decreased blood pressure
2) Decreased heart rate
3) Decreased respiratory rate
4) All of the above

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

At 1 MAC of volatile anesthetic, a patient experiences decreased blood pressure, decreased heart rate, and decreased respiratory rate, which together represent a depressed autonomic and cardiovascular response to the anesthetic.

Step-by-step explanation:

The physiologic effects at 1 MAC (Minimum Alveolar Concentration) of volatile anesthetic include several changes in body function. At this concentration, there is a decrease in blood pressure due to peripheral vasodilation and myocardial depression. The heart rate can also decrease due to blunted sympathetic activity depending on the anesthetic used. The respiratory rate tends to decrease as well, as volatile anesthetics depress the central respiratory drive. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 4) All of the above.

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