Reference no: EM133550718

Assignment:

Margaret Alexander, 29 years old, has a 6-month history of abnormal uterine bleeding, severe dysmenorrhea, and anemia. After several unsuccessful attempts to treat her condition conservatively, her physician recommended she undergo a diagnostic hysteroscopy. Margaret discussed her options for anesthesia with the anesthesia provider and, because she had several unpleasant experiences with general anesthesia in the past, she opted for a spinal anesthetic for her procedure. The circulating nurse brought Margaret to the OR and assisted the anesthesia provider during the administration of the spinal. The hysteroscopy began using glycine as the distention agent. The spinal block was very effective, and Margaret remained alert and conversive throughout the procedure. Several endometrial polyps and an intramural fibroid were diagnosed. Approximately 60 minutes into the procedure, as the surgeon began removing the fifth polyp, Margaret began complaining of a severe headache and nausea, and she vomited. After vomiting, she became combative and confused.

1. What is the likely cause of Margaret's status change?

2. How should the surgical team respond to this situation?