Session Key Points
- Simple hypotension is often reversed by ephedrine and/or IV fluid, and phenylephrine or metaraminol may be also be useful if hypovolaemia has been excluded
- Bradycardia is usually treated with glycopyrrolate or atropine, but when associated with a fall in blood pressure it may be treated with ephedrine
- Acute bronchospasm is best treated with IV salbutamol or aminophylline, because inhalers do not work down an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask
- Anaphylaxis and MH are acute life-threatening emergencies requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment with adrenaline and dantrolene respectively in the first instance
- Cardiac arrest is rare under general anaesthetic and the cause may relate to anaesthetic drugs; adrenaline is the mainstay of drug therapy
