What is the correct IV/IO epinephrine dose and interval during pediatric resuscitation?

• A. 0.05 mg/kg
• B. 0.001 mg/kg
• C. 0.01 mg/kg every 3-5 minutes
• D. 0.1 mg/kg

Answer: (C)

In pediatric resuscitation, the aim of epinephrine is to boost perfusion during CPR by increasing systemic vascular resistance and raising coronary and cerebral perfusion pressure. The best choice is 0.01 mg/kg given IV or IO every 3–5 minutes. This 10 micrograms per kilogram dose is repeated at those intervals as part of ongoing CPR and rhythm checks to maintain adequate perfusion while the child is unstable. For context, 0.05 mg/kg would be far too high and increase risk of hypertension and arrhythmias; 0.001 mg/kg is far too small to achieve the needed vasoconstriction; and 0.1 mg/kg is the endotracheal tube dose, not the IV/IO dose, so it’s not appropriate for IV/IO administration.