Adenosine

Question 1

Adenosine Class

Answer 1

Miscellaneous antidysrhythmic (C)

Question 2

Adenosine Indications

Answer 2

SVT or paroxysmal SVT unresponsive to Valsalva maneuver

Question 3

Adenosine Mechanism

Answer 3

Referred to as “chemical cardioversion”; slows heart rate by depressing automaticity in the SA node, slowing conduction of the SA and AV nodes and inhibiting reentry through the AV node

Question 4

Adenosine Side Effects

Answer 4

1. Flushed skin
2. chest pain or pressure
3. Nausea
4. Dyspnea
5. Hypotension
6. heart blocks
7. Bradycardia
8. Asystole
9. transient premature complexes
10. Seizures
11. blurred vision
12. Headache
13. Tingling
14. Numbness
15. Lightheadedness
16. Dizziness
17. shortness of breath
18. bronchoconstriction in asthmatic patients
19. metallic taste
20. throat tightness

Question 5

Adenosine Contraindications

Answer 5

1. Hypersensitivity
2. 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV block
3. sick sinus syndrome

Question 6

Adenosine Precautions

Answer 6

May produce new dysrhythmias that are usually transient

Question 7

Adenosine Interactions

Answer 7

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) and dipyridamole (Persantine) intensify the effects of adenosine; theophyllines and xanthines render it ineffective

Question 8

Adenosine Routes

Answer 8

Rapid IVP, IO (preferably in the AC with an 18- to 20-gauge IV; administered over 1–2 seconds and immediately flushed with NaCl)

Question 9

Adenosine Onset

Answer 9

Seconds

Question 10

Adenosine Duration

Answer 10

12 Seconds

Question 11

Adenosine Adult Dose

Answer 11

6 mg, 12 mg RIVP followed by 10–20 mL NaCl

Question 12

Adenosine Pedi Dose

Answer 12

0.1 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg RIVP followed by 10 mL NaCl (12 mg single dose max)