MASSACHUSETTS
GENERAL HOSPITAL
Department
of Pharmacy
Department
of Nursing
Critical
Care
|
Generic
Name: |
Diazepam |
|
Trade
Name: |
Valium |
|
Action: |
Sedative/Hypnotic Anxiolytic |
|
Indications: |
Restlessness /
Anxiety /Agitation Alcohol Withdrawal Conscious Sedation Status Epilepticus |
|
Administration
Guidelines: |
|
|
Usual
Dosage Range and Route: |
Anxiety / Agitation: 2.5mg to 10
mg IVP not to exceed 5 mg / minute Status Epilepticus: 10mg to 30
mg IVP not to exceed 5 mg / minute |
|
Special
Considerations: |
·
Diazepam IV contains a vesicant; vesicants cause blisters, severe
tissue injury, or necrosis when they infiltrate (Refer
to Nursing Policy for management 08-02-01 VESICANTS: TREATMENT FOR
EXTRAVASATION) ·
Whenever
possible administer doses orally ·
For
IV administration central line is preferred ·
May
be administered peripherally in a secure vein ·
IVP should not exceed 5mg/minute ·
Burning
sensation may result at site of injection if administered through peripheral
access ·
Flush
with 0.9% sodium chloride before and after administration ·
Dosage adjustments may be required in: -
Geriatric patients -
Renal failure -
Hepatic failure - Cumulative effect
may be observed, dosage adjustment may be required - Caution: will
potentiate actions and side effects of narcotics and other CNS depressants -Refer to general care Alcohol Withdrawal
Pathway when patients are transitioning from levels of care |
|
Precautions
and Side Effects: |
-
Hypotension - Bradycardia - Respiratory
depression/arrest |