NREMT Paramedic Cognitive ExamAirway, Respiration & VentilationHard
A 5-year-old child weighing 44 lbs (20 kg) is experiencing severe respiratory distress due to an acute asthma exacerbation. After administering albuterol and ipratropium, the child's condition has not improved, and accessory muscle use is prominent. The physician orders methylprednisolone. What is the correct dose of methylprednisolone for this child?
- A20 mg IV/IO.
- B10 mg IV/IO.
- C40 mg IV/IO.
- D30 mg IV/IO.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 20 mg IV/IO.
For severe pediatric asthma exacerbations, the typical dose of methylprednisolone is 1 mg/kg IV/IO. Given the child weighs 20 kg, the correct dose is 20 mg (1 mg/kg * 20 kg = 20 mg).
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 10 mg would be 0.5 mg/kg, which is below the guideline for severe asthma exacerbation.
- C. 40 mg would be 2 mg/kg, which is typically reserved for very severe or refractory cases, or adult dosing.
- D. 30 mg would be 1.5 mg/kg, which is higher than the standard initial dose for severe asthma.
Pediatric Methylprednisolone for Asthma
Systemic corticosteroid administered to children with severe asthma exacerbations to reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function.
- Dose: 1 mg/kg IV/IO or orally.
- Onset of action is delayed (hours).
- Used in conjunction with bronchodilators.
Memory trick: A-I-R: Albuterol, Ipratropium, Corticosteroids for Relief.