GENERAL ANESTHETICS Meaning and
Definition
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General Anesthetics refer to a class of drugs that induce a reversible loss of consciousness and sensation, allowing for the performance of painful medical procedures or surgeries without the patient experiencing pain or discomfort. These medications act on the central nervous system to produce a state of unconsciousness and a complete insensitivity to pain.
General anesthetics can be administered via inhalation, injection, or a combination of both. Inhalation anesthetics, such as nitrous oxide, are usually delivered through a mask or endotracheal tube and are inhaled into the lungs, achieving their effects via the bloodstream. Intravenous anesthetics, such as propofol or thiopental, are directly injected into a vein, rapidly inducing unconsciousness.
The mechanism by which general anesthetics work is not yet fully understood. It is believed that they enhance the inhibitory actions of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down brain activity, while simultaneously inhibiting the actions of excitatory neurotransmitters, such as glutamate. This leads to an overall suppression of neuronal activity and a loss of perception and awareness.
General anesthetics carry several risks and side effects, including potential adverse reactions to the drugs, allergies, nausea, and vomiting. Close monitoring of vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels, is crucial during anesthesia administration. Anesthesiologists and certified nurse anesthetists are highly trained to ensure the safe and effective use of general anesthetics, adjusting the dosage as needed to maintain the desired level of unconsciousness and analgesia while minimizing potential complications.
Common Misspellings for GENERAL ANESTHETICS
- feneral anesthetics
- veneral anesthetics
- beneral anesthetics
- heneral anesthetics
- yeneral anesthetics
- teneral anesthetics
- gwneral anesthetics
- gsneral anesthetics
- gdneral anesthetics
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- geberal anesthetics
- gemeral anesthetics
- gejeral anesthetics
- geheral anesthetics
- genwral anesthetics
- gensral anesthetics
- gendral anesthetics
- genrral anesthetics
Etymology of GENERAL ANESTHETICS
The word "anesthetic" originates from the Greek term "anaisthēsis", which means "without sensation". The term was coined in the 19th century to describe the state of reversible loss of sensation or consciousness induced by certain substances.
"General anesthetics" specifically refers to substances that induce a reversible loss of consciousness and sensation in the entire body, rather than just a specific area. The word "general" is derived from the Latin word "genus", meaning "kind" or "type". Combining "general" with "anesthetics" emphasizes the broad effects of these substances on the whole body rather than targeting a specific region.
