Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

Sodium Bicarbonate

Class

Answer 1

Alkalinizing agent

Question 2

Sodium Bicarbonate

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Combines with excessive acids to form a weak volatile acid

Question 3

Sodium Bicarbonate

Indications

Answer 3

Tricyclic antidepressant overdose, severe acidosis secondary to hyperventilation

Question 4

Sodium Bicarbonate

Contraindications

Answer 4

Alkalotic states

Question 5

Sodium Bicarbonate

Adverse Reactions

Answer 5

Correct dosage is essential to avoid overcompensation of pH, can deactivate catecholamines, can precipitate with calcium, and delivers a large sodium load.

Question 6

Sodium Bicarbonate

Drug Interactions

Answer 6

May inactivate catecholamines and form precipitate with calcium agents, atropine, morphine aminophylline, and magnesium.

Question 7

Sodium Bicarbonate

Adult Dosage

Answer 7

1 mEq/kg initially followed by 0.5 mEq/kg every 10 minutes as indicated by blood gas studies

Question 8

Sodium Bicarbonate

Pediatric Dosage

Answer 8

1 mEq/kg initially followed by 0.5 mEq/kg every 10 minutes

Question 9

Sodium Bicarbonate

Onset

Answer 9

Seconds

Question 10

Sodium Bicarbonate

Peak Effect

Answer 10

1-2 Minutes

Question 11

Sodium Bicarbonate

Duration

Answer 11

10 Minutes

Question 12

Sodium Bicarbonate

Special Considerations

Answer 12

Adequate ventilation is the mainstay of acid-base balance in cardiac arrest. Sodium bicarbonate is reserved for severe acidosis, or prolonged resuscitation efforts after ventilation, oxygenation, and perfusion has been established.