Among the commonly used intravenous induction agents, the highest incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting follows administration of:
- A Etomidate ✓
- B Propofol
- C Thiopentone
- D Ketamine
Correct answer: A. Etomidate
Explanation
Etomidate carries the highest emetic potential of the induction agents, with vomiting rates approaching 30 to 40 percent, particularly with repeated dosing. This contrasts sharply with propofol, which has an intrinsic antiemetic effect through possible GABA-B mediated suppression of the chemoreceptor trigger zone and actually reduces baseline PONV risk, making propofol the wrong choice here despite being the most popular agent.
Reference: Stoelting's Pharmacology and Physiology in Anesthetic Practice, 6th ed.
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