Adenosine (Adenocard) Flashcards
1
Q
Classification
A
Antidysrythmic
2
Q
Mechanism of Action
A
- Slows the conduction of electrical impulses at the AV node
3
Q
Indications
A
- Stable re-entry SVT
- Does not convert a-fib, atrial flutter, or v-tach
4
Q
Contraindications
A
- Sick sinus syndrome
- Second- or third-degree heart block
- Poison-induced or drug-induced tachycardia
5
Q
Adverse Effects
A
- Adverse effects are generally mild and short lived
- Sense of impending doom
- Complaints of flushing, chest pressure, throat tightness, or numbness
- Patients will have a brief episode of asystole after administration
6
Q
Administration
A
- Adult: Inital dose 6 mg rapid IV/IO over 1-3 seconds followed immediately by a 20 mL rapid saline flush. If first dose does not eliminate rhythm in 1-2 minutes, 12 mg rapid IV/IO, repeat a second time if needed.
-
Pediatrics:
- Children > 50 kg: Same as adult.
- Children < 50 kg: Initial dose 0.1 mg/kg IV/IO (max 6 mg) immediately followed by 5 (or greater) mL rapid salin flush. Repeat at 0.2 mg/kg (max 12 mg)
7
Q
Special Considerations
A
- Use with caution in patients with pre-existing bronchospasm and those with a history of AF.
- Eldery patients with no history of PSVT chould be carefully evaluated for dehydration and rapid sinus tachycardia requireing volume fluid replacement rather than simply treating with adenosine.
