I WAS an RN in NICU (taking some time off to raise a family). I am unfamiliar with Phenergan. Obviously we did not use it in my area.
I have a very tragic situation....A very good friend of mine brought her toddler to our local ER for vomitting and dehydration from viral Gastroenteritis. The child was under two and small for her age (9.5 kg). After waiting more than two hours with symptoms worsening (vomitting blood), her child was given a Phenergan suppository 12.5. No IV was given. No exam was performed. My friend think it was actually the 50 dose based on the color of the packaging and size of the supp. Later, when her daughter coded, the child was given Epinephrine (excessive dose). I have been able to find out that Epi contraindicates with the Phenergan (Lippincott). Her child died. She had me look over the records and the Phenergan stuck out.
What has been your experience with Phenergan supp in pediatric patients? Thanks for your input.....Mom23
The only problem I've ever had with phenergan was with an elderly patient and it was given IV. My pediatrician didn't like phenergan for his patients so we often ended up with Tigan suppositories. My question is this... if mom thought that it was a 50mg Phenergan suppository, why did she allow them to give it to her child? Not blaming the mom here but just wondering.
I think the Phenergan is not the first issue, but the fluid issue is paramount. There has to be more to the story - perhaps this child was sicker longer and the mom brought the child in too late.... there are pieces missing here that would have to be known to get a clear picture....
LilgirlRN, ADN, RN
769 Posts
The only problem I've ever had with phenergan was with an elderly patient and it was given IV. My pediatrician didn't like phenergan for his patients so we often ended up with Tigan suppositories. My question is this... if mom thought that it was a 50mg Phenergan suppository, why did she allow them to give it to her child? Not blaming the mom here but just wondering.