Tranquil Narcosis The ideal narcosis is tranquil. It resembles a natural sleep. The breathing is unimpeded and easy. Any change in the character of the breathing sound, or the rhythm, demands attention. If, for the moment, the anesthetic has been given too hurriedly, a few breaths of air will restore the calm. If, on the other hand, signs of awakening are discovered—the lid becomes more tonic, the corneal reflex more active, a tear appears in the eye, the patient begins to sweat, saliva collects in the throat, the pulse becomes more rapid—a few drops of the anesthetic should be administered until the desired free and unembarrassed respiration returns. |