- produces a dissociative state of anesthesia
- the sympathetic nervous system is activated causing an increase in HR and BP which makes it an ideal agent for hypovolemic pts
- ketamine is a direct myocardial depressant and should be used cautiously w/ CAD;
- ketamine is a potent cerebral vasodilator and is contra-indicated in pts w/ an increased intracranial pressure or a space occupying lesion;
- emergence of delirium and hallucinations may occur in up to 30% of pts;
- Pediatric Dosing:
- 4 mg/kg IM
- consider dosing with Atropine 0.1 mg/kg ? for childre < 5 yrs