What is the maximum IM dose of Ketamine for pediatric induction?

What is the maximum IM dose of Ketamine for pediatric induction?

• A. 600 mg
• B. 200 mg
• C. 400 mg
• D. 800 mg

Answer: (C)

Dosing ketamine for pediatric induction is weight-based, typically around 4–5 mg per kilogram given by IM injection. To keep dosing safe across the range of pediatric weights, many paramedic protocols cap the total IM dose at 400 mg. This means the largest single IM dose you would administer for induction, regardless of weight within the pediatric range, is 400 mg. For example, a 40 kg child would need about 160–200 mg, a 60 kg child about 240–300 mg, and an 80 kg child would reach the cap at 400 mg. Anything higher than 400 mg would exceed the protocol’s maximum. Therefore, the maximum IM dose is 400 mg.

Dosing ketamine for pediatric induction is weight-based, typically around 4–5 mg per kilogram given by IM injection. To keep dosing safe across the range of pediatric weights, many paramedic protocols cap the total IM dose at 400 mg. This means the largest single IM dose you would administer for induction, regardless of weight within the pediatric range, is 400 mg. For example, a 40 kg child would need about 160–200 mg, a 60 kg child about 240–300 mg, and an 80 kg child would reach the cap at 400 mg. Anything higher than 400 mg would exceed the protocol’s maximum. Therefore, the maximum IM dose is 400 mg.