Dextrose 50% in Water (D50W) Flashcards

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.

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.