You are working in the preoperative area with a client going to surgery for a cholecystectomy. The client has histamine2-receptor antagonists ordered preoperatively. The client asks you why these medications are needed

Question

What would be your best answer? A) "These medications slow motor activity."
B) "These medications decrease the amount of anesthesia you will need."
C) "These medications decrease anxiety before surgery."
D) "These medications decrease gastric acidity and volume."

Answer 1

D
Feedback:
The anesthesiologist frequently orders preoperative medications. Common preoperative medications include the following: anticholinergics, which decrease respiratory tract secretions, dry mucous membranes, and interrupt vagal stimulation; antianxiety drugs, which reduce preoperative anxiety, slow motor activity, and promote induction of anesthesia; histamine2-receptor antagonists, which decrease gastric acidity and volume; narcotics, which decrease the amount of anesthesia needed, help reduce anxiety and pain, and promote sleep; sedatives, which promote sleep, decrease anxiety, and reduce the amount of anesthesia needed; and tranquilizers, which reduce nausea, prevent emesis, and enhance preoperative sedation.