Question

What is the recommended first IV dose of lidocaine for patients in cardiac arrest with ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia that is unresponsive to defibrillation?

1) 1 mg/kg
2) 1.5 mg/kg
3) 2 mg/kg
4) 2.5 mg/kg

Answer 1

The recommended first IV dose of lidocaine for cardiac arrest patients in ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia unresponsive to defibrillation is 1.5 mg/kg.

Step-by-step explanation:

The recommended first intravenous (IV) dose of lidocaine for patients in cardiac arrest with ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia that is unresponsive to defibrillation is 1.5 mg/kg. When administering lidocaine, the goal is to achieve therapeutic plasma concentrations rapidly, which can help restore a normal heart rhythm. It's crucial to follow up-to-date clinical guidelines and ensure that the precise dosing is based on the patient's actual body weight.