Adrenaline

Question 1

Adrenaline - Contraindications (1)

Precautions (4)

Answer 1

Contraindications:
* hypovolaemia shock without adequate fluid replacement

Precautions:
Consider reduced doses for:
# elderly / frail patients
# history of cardiovascular disease
# monoamine oxidase inhibitors (antidepressants)

higher doses may be required for those on beta blockers

Question 2

Adrenaline - Side Effects (6)

Answer 2

> pupillary dilation
sinus tachycardia
supraventricular and ventricular arrythmias
feelings of anxiety / palpitations in conscious patient
hypertension
may increase the size of an MI

Question 3

Adrenaline - Actions

Answer 3

A naturally-occurring alpha and beta-adrenergic stimulant: alpha effects promote peripheral vasoconstriction; beta1 effects ^HR by increasing SA node firing rate, ^conduction velocity through the AV node, ^irritability of the ventricles, ^myocardial contractility; and beta2 effects cause bronchodilation. It is used in:

• cardiac arrest
• anaphylaxis
• asthma (severe/critical) not responding to nebulised therapy
• croup / upper airway obstruction

Question 4

Adrenaline - Presentation

Answer 4

1mg in 1ml glass ampoule

Question 5

Adrenaline - Onset and Duration

Answer 5

IV effects:

• onset 30sec
• peak 3-5mins
• duration 5-10mins

IM effects:

• onset 30-90sec
• peak 4-10mins
• duration 5-10mins