DICP : the annals of pharmacotherapy
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This article addresses some therapeutic controversies concerning medications that may be needed during advanced pediatric life support (APLS) and the routes of administration that may be selected. The controversies that are discussed include the appropriateness and selection of various routes for drug administration during APLS; the determination of whether epinephrine hydrochloride is the adrenergic agent of choice for APLS and its appropriate dose; treatment of acidosis associated with a cardiopulmonary arrest; recommendations for atropine sulfate doses; and the role, if any, of calcium in APLS. Background information differentiating pediatric from adult cardiopulmonary arrest is presented to enable the reader to have a better understanding of the specific needs of children during this life-threatening emergency. The article also presents an overview of various drugs used for APLS and a table of their typically recommended doses and routes of administration.
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The legal history and current developments in the right to refuse antipsychotic medication are reviewed. In Washington v. ⋯ A narrow issue was clarified but substantial uncertainty remains. As a result, law and policy problems at both state and institutional levels have become evident and may need to be addressed by drug policy decision makers.