Calcium in paediatric ALS
- calcium plays a vital role in the cellular mechanisms underlying myocardial contraction
- however there are very few data supporting any beneficial action of therapeutic calcium following most cases of cardiac arrest
- high plasma concentrations achieved after injection may have detrimental effects on the ischaemic myocardium and may impair cerebral recovery
- calcium can slow the heart rate and precipitate arrhythmias.
- therefore, calcium is given during resuscitation only when specifically indicated, for example in hyperkalaemia, hypocalcaemia, and clinically severe overdose of calciumchannel- blocking drugs
- however there are very few data supporting any beneficial action of therapeutic calcium following most cases of cardiac arrest
- dose of calcium chloride is 0.2 ml per kg of the 10% solution
- in cardiac arrest, calcium may be given by rapid intravenous injection. In the presence of a spontaneous circulation it should be given slowly
- calcium solutions and sodium bicarbonate should not be administered simultaneously by the same route
Reference:
- Resuscitation Council (UK). Advanced Paediatric Life Support. Guidelines 2005.
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