CCP Sodium Bicarbonate

Question 1

Drug class

Answer 1

Alkalising agent

Question 2

Pharmacology

Answer 2

Is a hypertonic solution that acts as a buffer. Excess hydrogen ions react with bicarbonate resulting in the formation of carbon dioxide & water. This action assists in restoring plasma pH to within normal ranges

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Cardiac arrest
- secondary to hyperkalaemia
- secondary to TCA or propranolol OD
• Significant injury with potential for crush syndrome
• TCA poisoning (QRS >0.14 & terminal R wave in aVR
• Sodium channel blockade due to non-TCA poisoning (QRS >0.14 & terminal R wave in aVR)
• Suspected hyperkalaemia (with QRS widening AND/OR AV dissociation)