Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

For which pediatric condition is succinylcholine typically avoided?

1. Asthma

2. Age under one year

3. Systemic lupus erythematosus

4. History of malignant hyperthermia

The correct answer is: History of malignant hyperthermia

Succinylcholine is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker often used for rapid sequence intubation. However, it is associated with risks in certain conditions. A history of malignant hyperthermia is particularly significant because succinylcholine can trigger this potentially life-threatening reaction in susceptible individuals. Malignant hyperthermia is a genetic disorder characterized by a hypermetabolic response to certain anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants, leading to severe muscle contractions, elevated body temperature, and acidosis. In patients with a known history of malignant hyperthermia, the administration of succinylcholine should be avoided to prevent this serious reaction and ensure the safety of the patient during medical procedures. The other conditions mentioned do not have the same level of contraindications associated with succinylcholine as malignant hyperthermia does. For example, while succinylcholine might have some considerations in pediatric populations, especially those under one year, the risk associated with malignant hyperthermia is more critical and well-established in clinical practice.