Before receiving general anesthesia for an emergency cesarean, what should the patient be administered?

Administering a liquid antacid before general anesthesia for an emergency cesarean section is crucial to reduce the risk of aspiration. Pregnant patients have an increased risk of gastric content aspiration due to physiological changes that affect gastric emptying and esophageal tone. By providing a liquid antacid, the patient's stomach pH is neutralized, which can significantly decrease the potential harm if aspiration occurs during intubation.

This preventive measure is part of the standard protocol to ensure patient safety and minimize complications. It is important to create the safest environment possible for both the mother and the fetus during such urgent situations. Other medications, such as opioids, barbiturates, and sedatives, may not adequately address the aspiration risk and are not standard practice in this scenario.