Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

Sevoflurane is often considered the best choice of anesthesia for pediatric patients due to several key factors that enhance its safety and effectiveness. One of the main advantages of sevoflurane is its rapid onset and offset of action, which allows for a quick induction and recovery from anesthesia. This is particularly beneficial in pediatric cases, where minimizing the duration of anesthesia is important in reducing potential risks and complications.

Furthermore, sevoflurane is known for its pleasant aromatic properties, making it more acceptable to young patients compared to other volatile anesthetics that can have a more pungent odor. This helps to alleviate anxiety and discomfort in children during the induction process.

Additionally, sevoflurane has a favorable cardiovascular profile and does not significantly irritate the airways, making it suitable for pediatric patients, who may be especially sensitive to airway irritation and hemodynamic changes. These characteristics contribute to its preference in pediatric anesthesia protocols.

Overall, the combination of rapid action, low respiratory irritability, pleasant smell, and safety profile makes sevoflurane the preferred anesthetic in this population.