The importance of monitoring in anesthesia

A plea is made for continuous electronic monitoring of every patient undergoing an anesthetic. Such monitoring is far superior to clinical observation by means of the natural sensors. A continuous record of the vital phenomena is indispensable. Routine monitoring of the following is advised: ECG, heart rate, capnogram, plethysmogram, temperature, oxygen percentage and indirect blood pressure. Big operations demand central venous pressure and direct blood pressure monitoring, in addition. In the Institute of Anesthesiology in Utrecht all electronic monitors are built into a single unit which is used during every anesthetic. Capnography it dealt with in some detail and its value as a universal monitor demonstrated. The routine use of electronic monitors improves the quality of anesthesia and increases the safety of the patient.