Anaesthetists Handbook - MEDICAL EDUCATION at University ...

Miscellaneous issuesinstruction manual for laryngeal mask airways requires the use ofgauze pads rolled into a cylindrical bite block to be inserted beforefixation (except ProSeal which has a built-in bite block).Drugs and prescribing[Appraised by Dr Mark Porter, January 2010]Emergency boxed syringesBoxed syringes are available in all theatres for emergency use:• Suxamethonium 100 mg in 2 mL.• Atropine 600 µg in 1 mL.• Ephedrine 30 mg in 10 mL.Supplies will be ordered by theatre staff. These boxes cost up to tentimes the price of the equivalent ampoules. They are provided foremergency use so you should not have to draw up the drugs ‘just incase’ for each operating list. The boxes are opened by grasping thetwo ends and twisting; the box will then spring open. Do not open thebox and break the seal except in emergency.If you use these drugs in non-emergency cases you should use theordinary ampoules.Trust formularyYou should use the UHCW local formulary in general prescribing.Prescribing in anaesthesia is consultant-led. The UHCW localformulary therefore does not list anaesthesia drugs. If you are unsurewhether a particular drug is in use by the consultant anaesthetists,ask senior advice.Off label use of drugsThis occurs when product licences do not cover drugs used foranaesthesia. This could be for the patient, the indication, or the routeof administration. Off label use occurs in a number of areas – forAnaesthetists Handbook January 2010 201