When should neuromuscular response be monitored?

• A. When neuromuscular blocking agents are administered
• B. Only after recovery
• C. Only if patient reports weakness
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

Monitor neuromuscular response any time a neuromuscular blocking agent is used. This allows you to gauge the depth of blockade, titrate the dose as needed, and verify adequate recovery before extubation. Objective, quantitative monitoring (such as train-of-four) provides real data on blockade level and recovery, helping prevent residual weakness that can cause hypoventilation, airway obstruction, or aspiration. Waiting until recovery or only acting on patient-reported weakness isn’t reliable, and never monitoring misses a preventable complication.