During resuscitation of a 3-year-old child (weight 15 kg) in pulseless VF arrest, the correct defibrillation dose is:
- A 15 J
- B 45 J
- C 60 J
- D 30 J ✓
Correct answer: D. 30 J
Explanation
PALS recommends an initial defibrillation dose of 2 J/kg for pediatric pulseless VF/pVT; subsequent doses are 4 J/kg. For a 15-kg child, 2 J/kg = 30 J. Doses of 15 J (1 J/kg) and 45 J are incorrect; 60 J exceeds the recommended initial dose.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.