Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W) Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

50 gm of Dextrose in a 100 ml solution

25 gm of Dextrose in a 100 ml solution

10 gm of Dextrose in a 50 ml solution

25 gm of Dextrose in a 50 ml solution (correct)

What is the classification of Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Carbohydrate

What is the mechanism of action of Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Provides immediate source of glucose for cellular metabolism.

What are the indications for using Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

ALOC due to documented or suspected hypoglycemia. Signup and view all the answers

Are there any absolute contraindications to the IV administration of Dextrose 50% in Water?

No absolutel contraindications. Signup and view all the answers

What are the potential side effects of Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Warmth, pain or burning at the injection site; severe neurologic symptoms if thiamine deficient. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should be taken when administering Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Aspirate prior to administration, cannulate largest vein possible. Signup and view all the answers

What drug interactions are associated with Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

None. Signup and view all the answers

What are the routes of administration for Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

IV, IO. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical onset and duration of action for Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Onset 30-60 seconds; duration depends on degree and cause of hypoglycemia. Signup and view all the answers

What is the adult dosage for Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

25 gm (50 ml solution) IVP/IO may repeat once in 5 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken regarding concentration in neonates when administering Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)?

Do not exceed a 12.5% concentration. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W)

Contains 25 grams of dextrose in a 50 ml solution, commonly used in medical settings.

Classification

Categorized as a carbohydrate, which serves as a vital energy source for the body.

Mechanism of Action

Acts as an immediate source of glucose, facilitating cellular metabolism essential for energy production.

Indications

Primarily indicated for altered level of consciousness (ALOC) due to confirmed or suspected hypoglycemia.

Contraindications

No absolute contraindications for IV administration in emergencies.
Relative caution required in patients with increasing intracranial pressure to avoid worsening cerebral edema.

Side Effects

Patients may experience discomfort such as warmth, pain, or burning sensation at the injection site.
Risk of severe neurologic complications, like Wernicke's encephalopathy or Korsakoff's psychosis, in patients who are thiamine deficient.

Precautions

Important to aspirate before administration and after every 10-15 ml to ensure IV patency and prevent necrosis.
Utilize the largest vein possible and maintain a wide-open IV flow before and after administration.
Caution is advised in cases of increased intracranial pressure due to potential exacerbation of edema or necrosis.

Interactions

No known drug interactions reported.

Routes of Administration

Administered intravenously (IV) or intraosseously (IO).

Onset and Duration of Actions

Onset of action is rapid, occurring within 30-60 seconds; duration varies depending on the extent and cause of hypoglycemia.

Dosages

Adults: 25 grams (50 ml solution) administered IV push (IVP) or intraosseously (IO), may repeat once in 5 minutes.
Pediatric:
- Birth to 1 month: 5-10 ml/kg slow IVP of a 10% solution; may repeat once in 10 minutes.
- 1 month to 2 years: 2 ml/kg slow IVP/IO of a 25% solution; may repeat once in 5 minutes.
- Over 2 years: 1 ml/kg slow IVP/IO of a 50% solution (same as adult); may repeat once in 5 minutes.

Notes

In neonates, concentration should not exceed 12.5% to avoid complications.

Description

Explore essential flashcards on Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W). This quiz provides key information including its classification, mechanism of action, and application in cellular metabolism. Perfect for students and professionals needing a quick review of this important carbohydrate solution.