What should be checked prior to every anesthesia case according to current recommendations?

The recommended practice prior to every anesthesia case highlights the importance of ensuring the proper function and readiness of equipment essential for maintaining patient safety during the procedure. Checking the carbon dioxide absorber is a critical step, as it plays a vital role in the anesthesia system. The carbon dioxide absorber is responsible for removing carbon dioxide from the exhaled gases, preventing rebreathing and ensuring the patient receives a mixture of safe gases.

If the carbon dioxide absorber is not functioning correctly or is depleted, it could lead to dangerous situations such as hypercapnia (an excess of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream), which can adversely affect the patient’s respiratory drive and overall health during anesthesia.

While it is also important to check the oxygen cylinder supply, verify the patient’s identity, and conduct a low-pressure leak test, the carbon dioxide absorber's state is particularly crucial because malfunctioning equipment can directly compromise the patient’s respiratory balance during anesthesia. This underscores the necessity of following current recommendations for a comprehensive pre-anesthetic check to safeguard against potential complications.