Which practice did Magaw refine for delivering ether anesthesia?

• A. Ether drop method
• B. Wet rag over face method
• C. Inhalation mask technique
• D. Intravenous anesthesia administration

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how ether anesthesia was historically delivered with a refined, controllable method. Magaw advanced the ether drop method, using a small amount of ether placed on a pad or cloth near the patient’s nose and titrating how much and how rapidly the patient inhaled it. This approach allowed the depth of anesthesia to be adjusted gradually and predictably, improving safety and reliability during induction and maintenance.

By contrast, the wet rag over the face method delivered ether in a less controlled way and carried more variability in depth and risk. The inhalation mask technique and intravenous anesthesia came later or are associated with different eras and methods. The ether drop method stands out because Magaw’s refinement focused on precise, gradual dosing to achieve the desired level of anesthesia.