• Table of Contents
• Brain Protection

XIV. Wake-up Test

       A. The easiest way to do this is to plan on a
          nitrous-narcotic technique and to simply turn
          off the nitrous oxide when it is time to examine
          the patient.

       B. For a case that should last a couple of hours,
          around 10 to 15 micrograms per KG of fentanyl
          combined with 60% N2O will allow a rapid wake-up
          when the N2O is turned off.

       C. Consider using a short-acting muscle relaxant.

       D. Discuss the purpose and importance of the wakeup
          test with the patient the night before the surgery.
          Tell him what he will be expected to do, and tell
          him that he may remember this part of the procedure.
          (Recall is unlikely, but it is preferable to expect
          recall and not have it.)