Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

Sodium Bicarb Drug Classification

Answer 1

Alkalinizing agent / electrolyte

Question 2

Sodium Bicarb Mechanism

Answer 2

Alkaline electrolyte that buffers excess H+, [Carbonic Acid Bicarbonate Buffer System]

Question 3

Sodium Bicarb Onset of Action

Answer 3

0 minutes (immediate)

Question 4

Sodium Bicarb Peak Effects

Answer 4

< 15 minutes

Question 5

Sodium Bicarb Duration of Action

Answer 5

1 - 2 hours

Question 6

Sodium Bicarb Half-Life

Answer 6

N/A

Question 7

Sodium Bicarb Indications / Field Use

Answer 7

Metabolic acidosis secondary to overdose (e.g. ASA, TCA), Cardiac arrest with known or suspected hyperkalemia (e.g. dialysis patient)

Question 8

Sodium Bicarb Contraindications

Answer 8

Respiratory Acidosis

Question 9

Sodium Bicarb Side Effects / Adverse Reactions

Answer 9

None in emergency setting

Question 10

Sodium Bicarb Dose

Answer 10

1 mEq/kg (initial) IV/IO, mEq = milliequivalent, is the unit of measure for electrolytes

Question 11

Sodium Bicarb Precautions

Answer 11

Causes metabolic alkalosis when administered in large quantities

Question 12

Sodium Bicarb Drug-Drug Interactinos

Answer 12

Deactivates catecholamines and vasopressors, reacts with CaCl2 to form PPT (in IV tubing)