Calcium Chloride

Question 1

Brand

Answer 1

Calcium chloride

Question 2

Class

Answer 2

Electrolyte

Question 3

Mechanism of action

Answer 3

Increases myocardial Force of contraction and may improve impulse conduction or impulse generation

Question 4

Indications

Contraindications

Answer 4

Significant hypocalcemia, hyperkalemia, calcium channel blocker OD, pre-treatment for IV verapamil administration

Hypercalcemia
Concurrent digoxin therapy

Question 5

Adverse reaction

Answer 5

Brady-a systole arrest, severe tissue necrosis if solution extravasates.

Question 6

Notes of administration

Answer 6

Adult
Hypocalcemia, calcium channel blocker OD, hyperkalemia and hypermagnesemia:
5-10 ml (0.5-1gm) of 10% calcium chloride. May repeat in 10 min.
Pre treatment for IV verapamil administration: 3 ml of 10% calcium chloride. May be repeated once

Hypocalcemia, calcium channel blocker….
0.2 ml/kg of a 10% solution infused slowly

Question 7

Routes

Onset

Answer 7

IV AND IO bolus

Seconds

Question 8

Special notes

Answer 8

For pediatrics, calcium chloride may be diluted with 1-2 ml of NS IV per ml of calcium chloride. Pediatric patients should not receive IV calcium channel blockers such as verapamil, therefore there is no dose for pre treatment. Calcium chloride is not recommended on pt’s with suspected digitalis toxicity. Studies have shown no benefit from calcium administration in asystole or PEA.