Which of the following is a metabolic, life-threatening adverse reaction to general anesthesia?

  1. hypothermia
  2. hyperthermia
  3. hypoglycemia
  4. hyperglycemia
Number 2 is correct.
Rationale: Malignant hyperthermia, not hypothermia, is a dangerous adverse reaction to certain drugs used in general anesthesia. Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia could possibly be a concern if the patient has a diagnosis such as diabetes, but both would be addressed preoperatively.