Which statement about the side effects of succinylcholine when used to paralyze neonates is NOT true?

Which statement about the side effects of succinylcholine when used to paralyze neonates is NOT true?

• A. It seldom causes fasciculation
• B. It can cause bradycardia
• C. Dysrhythmias frequently occur following intramuscular injections
• D. It can cause hyperkalemia

Answer: (C)

Succinylcholine depolarizes the neuromuscular junction to produce a rapid onset of paralysis, with possible initial fasciculations and then flaccid paralysis. In neonates the most clinically relevant cardiac effects are bradycardia, and, in certain conditions, hyperkalemia from potassium efflux. Fasciculations can occur but may be less obvious in neonates, and the risk of serious rhythm disturbance is not a defining feature in this group. The statement that dysrhythmias frequently occur after intramuscular injections is not true; intramuscular administration produces slower absorption and less likelihood of rhythm disturbances compared with other routes. Therefore, this option is the one not true.

Succinylcholine depolarizes the neuromuscular junction to produce a rapid onset of paralysis, with possible initial fasciculations and then flaccid paralysis. In neonates the most clinically relevant cardiac effects are bradycardia, and, in certain conditions, hyperkalemia from potassium efflux. Fasciculations can occur but may be less obvious in neonates, and the risk of serious rhythm disturbance is not a defining feature in this group. The statement that dysrhythmias frequently occur after intramuscular injections is not true; intramuscular administration produces slower absorption and less likelihood of rhythm disturbances compared with other routes. Therefore, this option is the one not true.