During CPR, how often is epinephrine administered?

• A. Every 1 minute
• B. Every 3-5 minutes
• C. Every 10 minutes
• D. Only once

Answer: (B)

During CPR, epinephrine is used to boost blood flow to the heart and brain by causing vasoconstriction, which raises aortic diastolic pressure and improves coronary and cerebral perfusion. Because its effects are temporary, it is given in repeat doses every 3 to 5 minutes during resuscitation. The standard dose is 1 mg IV/IO per administration, repeated at 3–5 minute intervals until return of spontaneous circulation or termination of resuscitation.

Giving it every minute would be too frequent and could lead to excessive vasoconstriction and adverse effects. Waiting 10 minutes between doses would allow perfusion to fall during ongoing CPR. Administering it only once would not sustain the needed perfusion throughout the entire resuscitation.