Managing passive regurgitation in patients under general anaesthesia

Abstract

Gastro-oesophageal reflux and regurgitation are considered adverse events that can be associated with general anaesthesia. The severity of complications depends on the immediate management of the episode and can include oesophagitis, rhinitis, aspiration pneumonia, oesophageal stricture and, in some cases, death. As veterinary nurses commonly monitor anaesthesia in practice, they require skilled techniques to instantly be able to recognise and act rapidly with the appropriate response following a regurgitation event. Being knowledgeable and understanding the likely aetiology, incidence and treatment of regurgitation can help to reduce the occurrence and, ultimately, lead to the best outcomes for the patient.