Calcium Gluconate

Question 1

Classification:

Answer 1

• Electrolyte solution

Question 2

Action:

Answer 2

• Counteracts the toxicity of hyperkalemia by stabilizing the membranes of the cardiac cells, reducing the likelihood of fibrillation

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

• Hyperkalemia
• Hypocalcemia
• Hypermagnesemia

Question 4

Adverse Effects:

Answer 4

• Soft tissue necrosis
• Hypotension
• Bradycardia (if administered too rapidly)

Question 5

Contraindications:

Answer 5

• VF
• Digitalis toxicity
• Hypercalcemia

Question 6

Dosage (Adult):

Answer 6

• 500 to 1000 mg IV, IO administered slowly at a rate of approximately 1 to 1.5 mL/min
• Max dose 3 g IV, IO
• May also be ordered as 60 mg/kg/dose

Question 7

Dosage (Pediatric):

Answer 7

• 60 to 100 mg/kg IV, IO slowly over 5-10 min period
• Max dose 3 g IV, IO

Question 8

Special Considerations:

Answer 8

• Do not administer by IM or subcutaneous routes, which causes significant tissue necrosis