Air Methods Critical Care 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The initial IV push dose for lidocaine in adult patients experiencing ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT) is 1.5 mg/kg. This dosing is based on guidelines for the management of these life-threatening arrhythmias.

Lidocaine serves as an effective antiarrhythmic agent in this scenario by blocking sodium channels, which stabilizes cardiac cell membranes and helps to restore normal heart rhythm. Administering this initial dose optimally balances efficacy and safety, allowing for rapid counteraction of the arrhythmia while monitoring for potential side effects.

While other doses may be used in different scenarios or for different medications, the 1.5 mg/kg IV push is specifically indicated for immediate action in the context of VF/VT management, ensuring a quick therapeutic response in a critical situation.