What is the pediatric dose of Calcium Chloride (ALS)?

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Multiple Choice

What is the pediatric dose of Calcium Chloride (ALS)?

Explanation:
Calcium chloride is given in pediatric ALS to rapidly supply calcium to the heart when there is calcium-related dysfunction, such as suspected hyperkalemia or calcium-channel blocker overdose. The dose is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered IV or IO over about five minutes. This weight-based amount ensures the child gets enough calcium to stabilize cardiac membranes without rushing the infusion, which can cause bradycardia or hypotension, and it also minimizes tissue injury if the solution leaks from the vein. In practical terms, 20 mg/kg of a 10% calcium chloride solution translates to about 0.2 mL/kg. The other smaller doses listed would not supply enough calcium for these emergency situations, which is why they are not used.

Calcium chloride is given in pediatric ALS to rapidly supply calcium to the heart when there is calcium-related dysfunction, such as suspected hyperkalemia or calcium-channel blocker overdose. The dose is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered IV or IO over about five minutes. This weight-based amount ensures the child gets enough calcium to stabilize cardiac membranes without rushing the infusion, which can cause bradycardia or hypotension, and it also minimizes tissue injury if the solution leaks from the vein. In practical terms, 20 mg/kg of a 10% calcium chloride solution translates to about 0.2 mL/kg. The other smaller doses listed would not supply enough calcium for these emergency situations, which is why they are not used.

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