Question

Emergently using a paralytic agent such as succinylcholine for securing the airway in a pediatric patient may cause bradycardia. What medication and dose would you provide as a premedication for the possible development of bradycardia?

Answer 1

Atropine is used as a premedication in pediatric patients to prevent bradycardia when using paralytic agents like succinylcholine for airway management. It acts as an anticholinergic, blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. The specific dose of atropine should be determined according to current medical guidelines or physician instruction.

Step-by-step explanation:

When emergently using a paralytic agent such as succinylcholine for securing the airway in a pediatric patient, which may cause bradycardia, atropine is the medication commonly provided as a premedication to manage this potential side effect. Atropine is an anticholinergic drug that acts as an antagonist to muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, thereby blocking the effects of excess acetylcholine that can lead to bradycardia.