A 7-Module Course Designed for Providers of Early Care to Injured Children
Module 4: Pediatric Head Injuries
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Anticonvulsants
Phenytoin - 10-20 mg/kg IV loading dose over 30 min and then maintenance at 5 mg/kg/dose 8 hourly, monitoring serum levels (therapeutic levels 10-20 mcg/ml); use Fosphenytoin if available
Lidocaine - 1 mg/kg IV may be neuroprotective if given early in resuscitation
Midazolam (Versed) or lorazepam (Ativan) - 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg IV over 3-5 min
Thiopental - 2 to 4 mg/ kg IV slowly
A SECURE AIRWAY, ADEQUATE BREATHING & EFFECTIVE CIRCULATION ARE PREREQUISITES FOR ANTICONVULSANT THERAPY
