Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

Bicarbonate Class:

Answer 1

Buffer

Alkalinizer

Question 2

Bicarbonate Mechanism of Action:

Answer 2

Reacts with hydrogen ions to form water and carbon dioxide thereby acting as a buffer for metabolic acidosis.

Question 3

Bicarbonate Indications:

Answer 3

• Known pre-existing bicarbonate-responsive acidosis.
• Upon return of spontaneous circulation after long arrest interval.
• TCA overdose.
• Hyperkalemia.
• Phenobarbital overdose.
• Alkalinization for treatment of specific intoxications.

Question 4

Bicarbonate Adult Dose:

Answer 4

-1 mEq / kg IV
May repeat with 0.5 mEq / kg every 10 minutes.
-Adult infusion: 1 – 4 amps in 1 liter D5W or NS, rate determined by sending physician.

Question 5

Bicarbonate Pediatric Dose:

Answer 5

-1 mEq / kg IV
May repeat with 0.5 mEq / kg every 10 minutes.
-Adult infusion: 1 – 4 amps in 1 liter D5W or NS, rate determined by sending physician.