Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What is the last manifestation of Malignant Hyperthermia (MH)?

1. Increased heart rate

2. Increased body temperature

3. Increased blood pressure

4. Increased respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Increased body temperature

The last manifestation of Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is indeed an increase in body temperature. Malignant Hyperthermia is a life-threatening condition that typically arises in response to certain anesthetic agents, leading to a hypermetabolic state. This hypermetabolic state accelerates various physiological processes, resulting in a rapid increase of calcium within muscle cells, which subsequently raises muscle metabolism and heat production. Initially, symptoms often include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and heightened respiratory rate. However, as the condition progresses and muscular activity continues to rise, the most significant and dangerous manifestation is a marked elevation in body temperature. Typically, the increase in body temperature is profound and can take time to develop, often manifesting after other earlier signs have already been observed. In fact, body temperature can become critically elevated, leading to complications such as organ dysfunction if not promptly recognized and treated. Therefore, understanding the progression of symptoms in MH is crucial, with increased body temperature being the latest and most critical marker to monitor in affected patients.