Atropine Sulfate

Question 1

Therapeutic Effects of atropine

Answer 1

Blocks parasympathetic action on heart
Increases rate of discharge by sinus node
Enhances conduction thru AV junction
Accelerates HR
Improves cardiac output
Reduces chance of ectopic activity in ventricles and thus VFib
Reverses bradycardia most effectively when due to increased parasympathetic tone or morphine.
Less effective in bradycardia when due to actual damage to AV or SA node

Question 2

Indications for atropine

Answer 2

Sinus Bradycardia when accompanied by hypotension
2nd or 3rd degree block when accompanied by bradycardia
Some cases of Asystole to remove heart block
Antidote in organophosphate poisoning

Question 3

Contraindications for atropine

Answer 3

Aflutter or Afib where there is a rapid ventricular response
Glaucoma-narrow angle
Use with caution in MI

Question 4

Side Effects of atropine

Answer 4

Blurred vision, headache, pupillary dilation
Dry mouth, thirst
Flushing of the skin

Question 5

Adult Dose of atropine

Answer 5

Bradycardia- 0.5mg IV repeat q5min until desired HR achieved up to 3mg
Asystole- 1mg IV q5min if it persists
Organophosphate poisoning-2mg IM &/or 1mg IV repeat IV dose q5-10min until a decrease in secretions is seen
ET dose-1-2mg diluted in 10ml NS

Question 6

Pediatric Dose of atropine

Answer 6

Bradycardia- .02mg/kg may repeat 1time
Min dose .1mg
Max dose .5mg in child/1mg in adolescent
ET dose .02mg/kg diluted in 10ml NS