Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

What is sodium bicarbonate and what is it used for?

Answer 1

Is a alkaline solution that comes in a prepared injection that may be given IV push. Routine administration during cardiac arrest is no longer recommended; however, it may be used in critical treatment of certain cases of acidosis (tricyclic antidepressant or aspirin overdose) and hyperkalemia.

Question 2

What is sodium bicarbonate MOA?

Answer 2

It reacts with H+ ions to form water and carbon dioxide and acts as a buffer against acidosis by raising blood pH

Question 3

What is the dose of sodium bicarbonate for prolonged cardiac arrest with adequate alveolar ventilation established?

Answer 3

1 mEq/kg/dose IV

Question 4

What is the dose of sodium bicarbonate for hyperkalemia?

Answer 4

50 mEq IV over 5 minutes

Question 5

What medications should not be combined with sodium bicarbonate?

Answer 5

norepinephrine, dobutamine, and atropine

Question 6

What interaction does sodium bicarbonate and dopamine have?

Answer 6

Sodium Bicarbonate renders dopamine inactive

Question 7

What are contraindications for sodium bicarbonate?

Answer 7

Patients with:

• Respiratory or metabolic alkalosis
• Hypoventilation
• Hypernatraemia
• Hypertension
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Eclampsia
• Hypocalcemia