What is the initial defibrillation energy dose for pediatric VT/VF during arrest?

What is the initial defibrillation energy dose for pediatric VT/VF during arrest?

• A. 4 J/kg, then 2 J/kg
• B. 1 J/kg, then 2 J/kg
• C. 5 J/kg
• D. 2 J/kg, then 4 J/kg

Answer: (D)

In pediatric resuscitation, defibrillation energy is set by the child’s weight and delivered in a staged way. The first shock should be 2 J/kg. If VT/VF persists, deliver subsequent shocks at 4 J/kg. This approach provides an effective dose to terminate the arrhythmia while minimizing myocardial injury, and it is why the best answer is 2 J/kg initially, then 4 J/kg for later shocks.

In pediatric resuscitation, defibrillation energy is set by the child’s weight and delivered in a staged way. The first shock should be 2 J/kg. If VT/VF persists, deliver subsequent shocks at 4 J/kg. This approach provides an effective dose to terminate the arrhythmia while minimizing myocardial injury, and it is why the best answer is 2 J/kg initially, then 4 J/kg for later shocks.