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Anesthesia · single question

A pregnant patient asks whether lidocaine is safe for dental treatment. What is the most accurate response?

  1. Lidocaine is the local anesthetic of choice in pregnancy (Category B) and is considered safe when used appropriately
  2. No local anesthetic is safe in pregnancy
  3. Only general anesthesia should be used
  4. Treatment must be delayed until after delivery in all cases
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Correct answer: A. Lidocaine is the local anesthetic of choice in pregnancy (Category B) and is considered safe when used appropriately

Lidocaine is classified as relatively safe (Category B) and is the preferred local anesthetic during pregnancy; necessary dental care should not be withheld, ideally in the second trimester.Other options: Withholding all anesthesia, mandating general anesthesia, or delaying all care are not evidence-based.Key exam takeaway: Lidocaine (Category B) is the preferred local anesthetic in pregnancy; provide necessary care, preferably in the second trimester.

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