Final answer:
The anesthesia team primarily needs the patient's weight to calculate the appropriate anesthesia dosage. Weight is used because it is directly related to the amount of anesthesia required. Other aspects such as general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation ensure an open airway during surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the appropriate anesthesia dosage, the primary information the anesthesia team needs is the patient's weight. In Frank G.'s case, his weight on admission is 160 pounds. This is crucial because the amount of anesthesia administered is often based on the patient's weight to ensure efficacy while minimizing the risk of overdose. Additionally, general anesthesia affects the muscles needed for respiration and movement of the tongue. To manage these effects, endotracheal intubation is performed to maintain an open airway. During recovery from anesthesia, it takes about 30 minutes for the muscles of respiration to regain control, and patients may experience a sore throat post-surgery.