skip to main content

Category 1 CS No Epidural Anaesthetic Choice — FRCA Final MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateObstetric AnaesthesiaCategory 1 CS No Epidural Anaesthetic ChoiceFRCA Final

A labouring woman develops a fetal bradycardia to 70 bpm lasting 4 minutes with thick meconium. Category 1 CS is called. There is no epidural in situ. Which anaesthetic is fastest and most appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — General anaesthesia with RSI

Category 1 CS (immediate threat to life): decision-to-delivery <30 min target. Without epidural in situ, GA with RSI is fastest (knife-to-skin within minutes). Spinal takes longer to site, position, and achieve adequate block. GA is recommended when speed is critical and no working epidural exists.

Reference: OAA/AAGBI – 2023 – Classification of urgency for CS; RCOA – 2023 – Obstetric anaesthesia