Caffeine administration
Disclaimer
These guidelines have been produced to guide clinical decision making for the medical, nursing and allied health staff of Perth Children’s Hospital. They are not strict protocols, and they do not replace the judgement of a senior clinician. Clinical common-sense should be applied at all times. These clinical guidelines should never be relied on as a substitute for proper assessment with respect to the particular circumstances of each case and the needs of each patient. Clinicians should also consider the local skill level available and their local area policies before following any guideline.
Read the full PCH Emergency Department disclaimer.
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Aim
To guide medical and nursing staff in caffeine administration.
Background
A neonate who presents with apnoea to the Emergency Department may benefit from caffeine administration. The decision to prescribe caffeine is made in consultation with a senior clinician.
Medication
- CAUTION: Caffeine Base 1 mg = Caffeine Citrate 2 mg
- To minimise dosing errors, always prescribe as Caffeine Base
Actions
- Stimulates central inspiratory drive
- Increases sensitivity of the medullary centre to carbon dioxide
Indications
Used for prevention or treatment of apnoea of prematurity or apnoea associated with respiratory infection or anaesthesia.
Refer to Caffeine - KEMH Neonatal Medication Monograph doses and administration.
Nursing observations
Observe infants for symptoms of toxicity:
- Tachycardia
- Jitteriness
- Tremors
- Unexplained seizures
- Vomiting.
Bibliography
- AMH Children’s Dosing Companion (online). Adelaide: Australian Medicines Handbook Pty Ltd; 2025. Cited February 2025. Available from: https://childrens.amh.net.au.
- Paediatric Dosage Handbook International 17th Edition (2011) EMIMS 2012.
| Endorsed by: |
Co-Director, Surgical Services |
Date: |
Feb 2025 |
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