Malignant hyperthermia

Malignant Hyperthermia

A rare genetic hyper-metabolic condition causing severe hyperthermia and skeletal muscle rigidity when exposed to inhalation anesthetics and succinylcholine.

Dantrolene

The antidote used in the treatment of malignant hyperthermia.

Hyperthermia

Elevated body temperature, which is a primary concern in malignant hyperthermia.

Muscle Contracture

A symptom of malignant hyperthermia characterized by muscular tightening.

Hypoxemia

Deficiency of oxygen in the blood, a symptom associated with malignant hyperthermia.

Lactic Acidosis

A build-up of lactic acid in the body, often resulting from hypoxia and observed in malignant hyperthermia.

Genetic Testing

A blood test to look for 3 possible mutations known to cause malignant hyperthermia.

Cooling Measures

Interventions implemented to reduce body temperature in cases of malignant hyperthermia.

Patient Education

Involves encouraging genetic testing and educating on risks and early warning signs related to malignant hyperthermia.

Tachycardia

Increased heart rate, a symptom that can occur during malignant hyperthermia.

Metabolic Acidosis

A pathophysiological condition often linked to malignant hyperthermia, marked by increased acidity in the body.

Dysrhythmias

Abnormal heart rhythms that may occur in patients with malignant hyperthermia.

Signs & Symptoms of Malignant Hyperthermia

Muscle contracture, hyperthermia, hypoxemia, lactic acidosis, hemodynamic and cardiac problems.

Nursing Management for Malignant Hyperthermia

Includes recognizing symptoms, notifying anesthesia team, stopping anesthesia, starting cooling measures, and administering dantrolene.

Priority Nursing Key Problems

Hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, tachycardia, metabolic acidosis, tachypnea, dysrhythmias.

Muscle Biopsy

A diagnostic test where muscle is exposed to chemicals to assess for malignant hyperthermia.