CCI Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) Practice Exam

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During a suspected malignant hyperthermia episode, which action should be performed first?
Correct Answer:
Stop inhalant anesthesia
Explanation:
Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening reaction triggered by certain anesthetic agents. The first action is to discontinue the triggering inhaled anesthetic immediately, which stops the ongoing abnormal calcium release in skeletal muscle and halts the progression of the hypermetabolic crisis. After removing the trigger, provide 100% oxygen by ventilation to correct hypoxemia and reduce carbon dioxide buildup, then administer dantrolene as soon as possible and initiate cooling and electrolyte management. Stopping the surgery isn’t the immediate priority; the trigger must be removed first to prevent further deterioration.

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