What agent is indicated to treat hypertension due to vasopressor extravasation in pediatric patients?

What agent is indicated to treat hypertension due to vasopressor extravasation in pediatric patients?

• A. Administer verapamil
• B. Administer esmolol
• C. Administer labetalol
• D. Administer phentolamine

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is reversing vasopressor-induced vasoconstriction from extravasation. When a vasopressor leaks into tissue, alpha-1 receptors on small arteries constrict, causing local hypertension, reduced perfusion, and risk of tissue injury. The most effective antidote is phentolamine, a nonselective alpha-adrenergic antagonist. By blocking alpha-1 receptors at the extravasation site, it reverses the vasoconstriction, increases blood flow, and limits tissue damage. In children, this is typically given by local infiltration around the affected area following established pediatric dosing protocols. Other agents (such as verapamil or beta-blockers) don’t directly counteract the alpha-mediated vasoconstriction and are not as effective as the first-line antidote for this scenario.

The idea being tested is reversing vasopressor-induced vasoconstriction from extravasation. When a vasopressor leaks into tissue, alpha-1 receptors on small arteries constrict, causing local hypertension, reduced perfusion, and risk of tissue injury. The most effective antidote is phentolamine, a nonselective alpha-adrenergic antagonist. By blocking alpha-1 receptors at the extravasation site, it reverses the vasoconstriction, increases blood flow, and limits tissue damage. In children, this is typically given by local infiltration around the affected area following established pediatric dosing protocols. Other agents (such as verapamil or beta-blockers) don’t directly counteract the alpha-mediated vasoconstriction and are not as effective as the first-line antidote for this scenario.