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Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): The Pharmacist's Role

The provision of pharmaceutical care to the patient undergoing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an important evolving concept. Pediatric resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) presents a particularly challenging situation for the practicing pharmacist. Etiologies of pediatric arrests include pulmonary conditions such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, respiratory distress syndrome, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, and a myriad of accidental factors. Important initial determinations on arriving at a pediatric arrest are described, such as determining the correct weight of the patient, assessing the need for vascular access and/or intubation, and establishing the "code" leader. Recent American Heart Association guidelines for the pharmacotherapy of pediatric ACLS are discussed in detail. Included are recommendations on oxygen delivery, routes of fluid and medication administration, recent changes in epinephrine dosing, and guidelines for the proper use of adjunct medications. A detailed description of a method of using adult emergency drug syringes in the pediatric arrest is provided. Proper use of this method can expedite drug dispensing in an arrest, minimize the potential for needle-stick injury, and optimize the delivery of a patient-specific dose of medication. A "mock code" program is described that includes involvement with pharmacists, nurses, medical residents, and respiratory therapists. This program provides a hands-on role-playing model of a simulated pediatric arrest and serves as a valuable teaching tool for those charged with the responsibility of patient care during an actual arrest. While the ultimate role of the pharmacist in the pediatric arrest continues to be defined, developing the competency to provide pharmaceutical care in this clinical setting can be extremely rewarding. Copyright © 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company

Journal of Pharmacy Practice, Vol. 9, No. 1, 42-56 (1996)
DOI: 10.1177/089719009600900105


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