Calcium chloride

Question 1

Adult Dosage

Answer 1

4 mg/kg IV, slowly
Repeat every 10 PRN

If patient is taking Digitalis:
2mg/kg IV slowly

Question 2

Pediatric dosage

Answer 2

20 mg/kg slowly, over 10 minutes PRN

Calcium channel blocker overdose and hyperkalemia:
20 mg/kg IV slowly

Question 3

Actions

Answer 3

Calcium chloride increases the force of myocardial contraction.

In normal hearts, produces a predictable rise in systemic arterial pressure.

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Calcium chloride is indicated during resuscitation for treatment of Hypocalcemia and calcium channel blocker toxicity (cardizem) and magnesium sulfate overdose.

Protects the heart from hyperkalemia in patients with in stage renal disease.

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Cardio pulmonary arrest not associated with calcium channel blocker toxicity, hypocalcemia, or hyperkalemia.

Question 6

Warnings

Answer 6

Calcium chloride should not be administered in the same infusion with sodium bicarbonate. Forms and insoluble precipitate (calcium carbonate.)

Should be given with extreme caution and then reduce to dosages to persons taking digitalis because it increases ventricular irritability and may precipitate digitalis toxicity.

Question 7

Side effects

Answer 7

If the heart is beating, rapid administration of calcium can produce slowing of cardiac rate.