Which statement applies to propofol?

• A. It can be given IV, IP, or IM.
• B. It can be given as a continuous intravenous infusion.
• C. It is a long-acting anesthetic agent.
• D. It has long recovery periods.

Answer: (B)

Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic with ultra-short action that is commonly used as a continuous IV infusion to maintain anesthesia or sedation during procedures. Its rapid onset and rapid recovery come from quick redistribution and metabolism, so depth of anesthesia can be tightly controlled and fading effects occur quickly after stopping the infusion. It is not administered intraperitoneally or intramuscularly, and it is not a long-acting agent; the idea of a long recovery period doesn’t fit propofol’s profile. When using propofol, monitoring is essential because it can cause respiratory depression and low blood pressure, but its ability to be infused continuously for maintenance is exactly why the statement is correct.