What two anesthetic gases are included in the balanced inhalation mix during general anesthesia?

The choice of air and oxygen is significant as these components are fundamental for maintaining adequate ventilation and ensuring patient safety during general anesthesia. Inhalation anesthetics often rely on a mix of air and oxygen to ensure that the patient remains oxygenated throughout the procedure. This mixture supports not only sedation and analgesia but also sustains physiological functions, which is critical when other anesthetic agents are being administered.

In contrast, while nitrous oxide is commonly used in anesthesia, it is typically combined with oxygen rather than being part of an inhalation mix on its own. Additionally, gases like helium and nitrogen do not provide anesthetic effects needed for general anesthesia, and while propofol is a widely used intravenous anesthetic, it is not an inhalation agent. Isoflurane, on the other hand, is an inhalational anesthetic but is typically used in conjunction with oxygen rather than as part of the air and oxygen mix.

Therefore, the combination of air and oxygen is essential for maintaining overall patient safety and effective anesthesia management during surgical procedures.