What vital signs should be checked at regular intervals during anesthesia?

• A. Blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate
• B. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature
• C. Temperature, hydration status, and blood glucose
• D. Heart rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature

Answer: (B)

Monitoring vital signs during anesthesia is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient. The correct choice includes heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, which are essential indicators of an animal's physiological status.

Heart rate is an important metric that reflects the animal’s cardiovascular function and can indicate how well the heart is performing during the anesthetic period. Changes in heart rate may signal adverse reactions to anesthetics or stress.

Respiratory rate is a key component in assessing the animal's pulmonary function. During anesthesia, especially general anesthesia, the respiratory effort can change significantly. Close monitoring helps to ensure that the animal is adequately ventilating and that gas exchange is occurring efficiently.

Temperature is critical to monitor as well since anesthesia can disrupt normal thermoregulation. An animal under anesthesia may become hypothermic due to factors such as the effects of anesthetic agents, being exposed to cold environments, or not being properly thermally managed during the procedure.

This combination of vital signs provides comprehensive insight into the anesthetized animal's physiological status, allowing for timely interventions if abnormalities arise. Other options offered include measures that, while important, are not primary vital signs monitored during anesthetic procedures.