Arterial oxygen tensions during the induction of ether and air anaesthesia with spontaneous respiration

Arterial oxygen tensions were measured during the induction of ether and air anaesthesia with the EMO Inhaler and spontaneous respiration. Severe degrees of anoxia were demonstrated; these were often associated with normal or above normal minute volumes. The danger of anoxia can be alleviated either by supplying oxygen or by the use of relaxants and positive pressure ventilation or both. A choice of priorities has often to be made by those in authority in developing countries where resources of material and manpower are limited and logistic support erratic. Every effort should be made to encourage a supply of oxygen in such circumstances. The training of anaesthetic staff is of paramount importance and it is a great pity that the equivocal attitude of the professions, both medical and nursing, in Britain towards the training of nurses and paramedical personnel in anaesthesia does little to encourage such training in developing countries.