What is the correct method to administer calcium according to the protocol?

What is the correct method to administer calcium according to the protocol?

• A. Two grams IV/IO as 60 mL of 10% calcium gluconate or 10 mL of 10% calcium chloride
• B. One gram IV/IO as 30 mL of 10% calcium gluconate or 10 mL of 10% calcium chloride
• C. Five hundred milligrams IV/IO as 5 mL of 10% calcium gluconate
• D. One gram IV/IO as 50 mL of 20% calcium gluconate

Answer: (D)

Calcium is given to counteract citrate binding from stored blood products and to restore ionized calcium, which is essential for cardiac function, nerve signaling, and vascular tone during massive transfusion. The protocol specifies giving about 1 gram of calcium gluconate IV/IO, diluted in 50 mL of a 20% calcium gluconate solution. This dilution provides a practical, controlled dose in a safe volume for IV administration, balancing rapid effect with safety. Calcium gluconate is preferred in the field because it is gentler on veins than calcium chloride, reducing irritation with IV/IO administration.

Calcium is given to counteract citrate binding from stored blood products and to restore ionized calcium, which is essential for cardiac function, nerve signaling, and vascular tone during massive transfusion. The protocol specifies giving about 1 gram of calcium gluconate IV/IO, diluted in 50 mL of a 20% calcium gluconate solution. This dilution provides a practical, controlled dose in a safe volume for IV administration, balancing rapid effect with safety. Calcium gluconate is preferred in the field because it is gentler on veins than calcium chloride, reducing irritation with IV/IO administration.