Vasopressor Concentration Suggested Max Peripheral Dose
Norepinephrine 4 mg/ 250 mL NS/D5W 0.3 mcg/kg/min
Epinephrine 4 mg/ 250 mL NS/D5W 0.25 mcg/kg/min
Dopamine 400 mg/ 250 mL D5W 10 mcg/kg/min
Phenylephrine 20 mg/ 250mL NS/D5W 1.3 mcg/kg/min
40 mg/ 250 mL NS/D5W
** May be administered peripherally for only ONE vasopressor, and for a maximum of 12 hours.
Two working peripheral IV lines must be present
Peripheral access (20G or larger) is preferred in the forearm or upper arm. Antecubital access is allowed provided that the arm can be maintained in a straight position.
This access must be contralateral to the BP cuff.
There must be blood return from the IV site prior to vasopressor initiation to confirm placement.
IV site must be assessed every 1 hour and prn for extravasation
If multiple vasopressors are required, central venous access is warranted.