Which monitoring technique can indicate inadequate anesthesia during surgery?

• A. Abnormal heart rhythms
• B. Increased muscle tone and reflexes
• C. Decreased salivation
• D. Stable blood pressure

Answer: (B)

Increased muscle tone and reflexes is a significant indicator of inadequate anesthesia during surgery. When an animal is under proper anesthesia, it should exhibit relaxed muscle tone and a minimal response to reflex stimuli. If there is increased muscle tone, it suggests that the animal may still be aware of its surroundings or experiencing pain, which could lead to movement and the potential for injury during the procedure. The presence of reflexes, such as withdrawal or response to stimulation, further indicates that the anesthetic depth may not be sufficient to ensure the animal's comfort and immobility during the surgery. Therefore, monitoring for increased muscle tone and reflexes is a critical aspect of assessing the adequacy of anesthesia in a surgical setting.

In contrast, other options like abnormal heart rhythms, decreased salivation, and stable blood pressure may not directly indicate inadequate anesthesia. While abnormal heart rhythms could suggest underlying health issues or reactions to anesthetics, they are not solely indicative of inadequate anesthesia. Decreased salivation can occur with certain anesthetic agents and may not provide direct insight into anesthetic depth. Stable blood pressure is generally a sign of adequate anesthesia and physiological stability, making it less relevant as an indicator of inadequate anesthesia.