Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Practice Exam

What is the effective dose of intravenous lidocaine able to partially blunt the cardiovascular response to intubation?

1. 1 mg/kg

2. 1.5 mg/kg

3. 2 mg/kg

4. 2.5 mg/kg

The correct answer is: 1.5 mg/kg

The effective dose of intravenous lidocaine that can partially blunt the cardiovascular response to intubation is indeed 1.5 mg/kg. This dose has been shown in clinical studies to provide sufficient action in reducing the sympathetic response that typically occurs during intubation, which often manifests as increases in heart rate and blood pressure. Lidocaine acts as a local anesthetic and, at this specific dosing, provides a balance between effectiveness in reducing hemodynamic responses and minimizing potential adverse effects from higher doses. While lower doses may not sufficiently mitigate the cardiovascular response, higher doses could lead to systemic toxicity, including complications such as neurological effects or cardiovascular instability. Understanding the specific dosing range is crucial for CRNAs, as they must optimize airway management while ensuring the safety of the patient. The 1.5 mg/kg dose effectively achieves these goals, making it a well-supported choice in clinical practice.