BRADYCARDIA ALGORITHM
Bradycardia in pediatric patients often indicates hypoxia or increased vagal tone. Prompt recognition and management are essential to prevent progression to cardiac arrest.
Signs of Bradycardia:
- Heart rate below normal for age (e.g., <100 bpm in neonates, <60 bpm in older children).
- Poor perfusion (e.g., weak pulses, delayed capillary refill).
- Altered mental status or lethargy.
Management Algorithm:
- Step 1: Ensure oxygenation and ventilation with 100% oxygen.
- Step 2: If heart rate <60 bpm with signs of poor perfusion, initiate chest compressions.
- Step 3: Administer epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg IV/IO every 3-5 minutes).
- Step 4: Consider atropine (0.02 mg/kg) for bradycardia due to vagal stimulation or AV block.
- Step 5: Treat reversible causes (e.g., hypoxia, hypothermia).
Early intervention in bradycardia can prevent progression to cardiac arrest and improve outcomes.
