What is the epinephrine dose for a child in asystole/PEA?

• A. 0.01 mg/kg
• B. 0.1 mg/kg
• C. 0.001 mg/kg
• D. 0.05 mg/kg

Answer: (A)

During pediatric cardiac arrest, epinephrine is used to boost perfusion to the heart and brain by increasing systemic vascular resistance and coronary perfusion pressure during CPR. For a child in asystole or PEA, the recommended dose is 0.01 mg/kg given IV or IO, and it should be re-administered every 3–5 minutes during ongoing CPR. This dose translates to about 0.1 mL/kg of a 1:10,000 epinephrine solution, with a typical maximum single dose of 1 mg. The goal is to improve chances of return of spontaneous circulation while avoiding excessive adrenergic effects.