Central Nervous System Depression: Performance Decrements, Abnormal Behavior, Suicide

The effects of trace anesthetics on the performance of anesthesiologists is discussed & an overview of factors affecting performance of operating room personnel is given. These factors include drug abuse, fatigue, & environmental variables such as noise, temperature & humidity. Information on abnormal behavior & suicide is also given. Suggestions regarding further study are made. 14 Refs. (LH)