**Core Concept**
The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of an inhalational anesthetic agent is a measure of its potency, defined as the concentration of the agent in the alveoli that prevents movement in 50% of patients in response to a painful stimulus. Various factors can influence the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent, including age, sex, obesity, and the presence of other anesthetic agents.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is the factor that does not decrease the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent. The MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent is decreased by factors that increase the concentration of the agent in the alveoli or reduce the concentration of the agent required to achieve effective anesthesia. The factors that decrease the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent include:
* **Age**: Younger patients have a lower MAC, indicating that they require less anesthetic agent to achieve effective anesthesia.
* **Sex**: Women have a lower MAC than men due to differences in body composition and metabolism.
* **Obesity**: Obese patients have a lower MAC due to the increased volume of distribution of the anesthetic agent.
* **Hypothermia**: Decreased body temperature increases the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it is a factor that decreases the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is a factor that decreases the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is a factor that decreases the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to consider the factors that influence the MAC of an inhalational anesthetic agent to optimize anesthesia care and minimize the risk of adverse outcomes.
**Correct Answer:** A.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.