Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A 27-year-old male client develops malignant hyperthermia during a herniorrhaphy; his temperature is 105.4 degrees F. The client has had no previous health problems other than hypertension. A nurse orienting in the OR says, 'I thought only people with brain tumors had this problem.' Which of the following answers explains malignant hyperthermia?

  • A. Epinephrine increased the basal metabolic rate as soon as the general anesthesia was administered.
  • B. The blood flow to active muscles increased with a concurrent decrease in the blood flow to the organs not needed for rapid activity.
  • C. The catecholamines released led to activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
  • D. Malignant hyperthermia is an inherited disorder of muscle metabolism that causes fever, increased heart rate, and rapid breathing.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Epinephrine is a hormone employed in the fight-or-flight stress response. It does not contribute to malignant hyperthermia. Stimulation of the sympathetic adrenal medullary mechanism helps the body cope with stress. It does not contribute to malignant hyperthermia. Catecholamine release is one of the physiological effects of stress. It does not contribute to malignant hyperthermia. Malignant hyperthermia is an inherited disorder of muscle metabolism that increases intracellular calcium, which causes generalized muscle rigidity, fever, tachycardia, and tachypnea.