bicarbonate

Last reviewed 01/2018

Bicarbonate is rarely needed.  Continuing acidosis usually means insufficient resuscitation or insufficient insulin.

Bicarbonate should only be considered in children who are profoundly acidotic (pH< 6.9) and shocked with circulatory failure. Its only purpose is to improve cardiac contractility in severe shock.

Seek expert advice about the quantity before initiating bicarbonate treatment (1).

Reference: