calcium plays a vital role in the cellular mechanisms underlying myocardial contraction
however there are very few data supporting any beneficial action of therapeutic calcium following most cases of cardiac arrest
high plasma concentrations achieved after injection may have detrimental effects on the ischaemic myocardium and may impair cerebral recovery
calcium can slow the heart rate and precipitate arrhythmias.
therefore, calcium is given during resuscitation only when specifically indicated, for example in hyperkalaemia, hypocalcaemia, and clinically severe overdose of calciumchannel- blocking drugs
dose of calcium chloride is 0.2 ml per kg of the 10% solution
in cardiac arrest, calcium may be given by rapid intravenous injection. In the presence of a spontaneous circulation it should be given slowly
calcium solutions and sodium bicarbonate should not be administered simultaneously by the same route
Reference:
Resuscitation Council (UK). Advanced Paediatric Life Support. Guidelines 2005.
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