Ketamine

Question 1

What are the contraindications for ketamine?

Answer 1

1. Known sensitivity
2. active cardiac disease
3. < 1 year

Question 2

What is the dose for ketamine?

Answer 2

200mcg IM repeat if required at 5 mins 200mcg max dose 400mcg

Question 3

What are the 5 actions of ketamine ?

Answer 3

1. Analgesic, sedative agent
2. Marked amnesia
3. Has bronchodilating properties
4. Does not tend to cause respiratory depression
5. Does not tend to cause hypotension

Question 4

What are the 6 adverse effects of ketamine?

Answer 4

1. Transient laryngospasm
2. Hypersalivation
3. Emergence reactions
4. Muscle twitching and purposeless movements
5. Occasionally hypotension if given too quickly to the hypovolaemic patient
6. Occasionally respiratory depression- apnoea