Desflurane Not for Induction — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: A — It is suitable for inhalational induction of anaesthesia in children.
Explanation lettering: D = shown as A · C = shown as B · E = shown as C · B = shown as D · A = shown as E
D is incorrect. Desflurane should not be used for inhalational induction in children because it frequently causes coughing, breath-holding, apnoea, laryngospasm and increased salivation. Its airway irritant properties therefore make paediatric induction unsuitable. In contrast, the UK SmPC permits inhalational induction in adults, although breathing desflurane while awake is poorly tolerated and its benefit–risk balance should be considered individually. The remaining statements are recognised properties: desflurane has a boiling point of approximately 22.8°C, a blood:gas partition coefficient of about 0.42 and an age-dependent adult MAC around 6–7% in oxygen. Coughing and laryngospasm are recognised during induction.
Reference: Piramal Critical Care Ltd. Desflurane 100% (v/v) Inhalation Vapour, liquid: Summary of Product Characteristics, sections 4.1–4.4 and 5.1, revised March 2024. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/10799/smpc