TYK53
Which of the following is MOST correct concerning nitrous oxide?
A. It increases CBF and decreases CMRO2
B. It decreases CBF and increases CMRO2
C. It increases CBF and increases CMRO2
D. It decreases CBF and decreases CMRO2
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Answer
The answer is C. Nitrous oxide is known to increases CBF and CMRO2 in children. It is also known to impair autoregulation and is therefore usually avoid in patients that may be at risk for cerebral ischemia or decreased cerebral perfusion pressure (increased ICP, head trauma, VP shunt malfunction, etc.). This increase in CBF may be offset by hypocapnia, but the increase in CMRO2 will persist. It is therefore best avoided in these patients at highest risk.
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