National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and detailed explanations. Achieve success in your exam!

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What is the consequence of administering succinyl choline to a patient deficient in serum cholinesterase?

Prolonged headache
Prolonged apnea
Increased heart rate
Decreased blood pressure

The correct answer is: Prolonged apnea

Succinylcholine is a neuromuscular blocker commonly used for intubation and surgical procedures. It works by blocking the transmission of signals between nerve cells and muscles, resulting in temporary paralysis. Normal levels of serum cholinesterase are necessary to break down and remove succinylcholine from the body. If a patient is deficient in serum cholinesterase, the drug may remain in the body for longer periods of time, prolonging the effects of muscle paralysis and potentially causing prolonged apnea (breathing cessation). The other options, such as prolonged headache, increased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure, are not related to succinylcholine administration in a patient with cholinesterase deficiency. Therefore, they are incorrect choices for this question.