This procedure is for use by nursing staff in CCTC who are certified in the administration of life saving drugs. Procedure Rationale 1. Ventricular fibrillation, in conjunction with defibrillation. See drug monograph for amiodarone , procainamide or bretylium . Excessive doses of lidocaine can produce myocardial and circulatory depression, or produce CNS toxicity.
Hepatic failure increases the risk for toxicity.
Amiodarone or other agents may be desired, however, a specific order outside the protocol is required. In the absence of an order, nurses are only approved for the administration of lidocaine. For prevention of recurrent VT, by maintaining therapeutic levels of lidocaine. Notify a critical care physician. Further treatment may be necessary.