EPINEPHRINE INHALED
(alternative to racemic epinephrine - not commercially available in Canada)Standard Prescription
epinephrine 2.5 to 5 mg (2.5 to 5 ml) inhaled via nebulizer Q__H PRN for ____ doses
Dosages
Croup:
5 mL/dose (5mg/dose) via nebulizer up to Q1H
**If >= 3 doses required within 2-3 hours, contact PICU medical staff**
Mechanism of Action
Alpha and beta adrenergic agonist
Forms Supplied
IV solution: 1 mg/mL, 30 mL vial
Epinephrine topical solution (same strength as IV solution) can be used for inhalation but BCCH will use the IV solution for inhalation as per March 2010 PTN decision.
Comments
Tachyphylaxis can occur (decreased response with repeated doses).
For upper airway obstruction (croup) to be administered by respiratory therapists (RT) or physician (MD). Registered nurse (RN) may administer if MD present. . If necessary, after verbal approval by MD, RN may initiate the epinephrine nebulizer prior to RT or MD arrival so as not to delay treatment.
For lower airway obstruction (bronchiolitis) RNs may administer
Patients should be assessed by MD or RT before and after administration.
See on-line procedure (SHOP) for Aerosol Therapy using nebulizer
For upper airway obstruction (croup) to be administered by respiratory therapists (RT) or physician (MD). Registered nurse (RN) may administer if MD present. . If necessary, after verbal approval by MD, RN may initiate the epinephrine nebulizer prior to RT or MD arrival so as not to delay treatment.
For lower airway obstruction (bronchiolitis) RNs may administer
Patients should be assessed by MD or RT before and after administration.
See on-line procedure (SHOP) for Aerosol Therapy using nebulizer
References
51, 245
Last Edited
2022-12-20 06:59:20