skip to main content

Postoperative apnoea in ex-premature infant — FRCA Final MCQ

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

HardPaediatricPostoperative apnoea in ex-premature infantFRCA Final

A 7-week-old ex-34-week infant is listed for inguinal hernia repair. He has had brief apnoeic episodes at home, haemoglobin is 92 g/L, and the surgical team request day-case discharge after general anaesthesia. What is the most appropriate anaesthetic technique?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Plan postoperative cardiorespiratory monitoring after anaesthesia

Ex-premature infants, especially with anaemia or previous apnoea, are at increased risk of postoperative apnoea after anaesthesia and require monitored postoperative care. A caudal block may reduce opioid need but does not remove the risk. Codeine is inappropriate in young infants. The anaesthetic plan should consider corrected age, gestational age, anaemia and comorbidity.

Reference: RCoA GPAS paediatric anaesthesia 2022; APAGBI paediatric anaesthesia guidance