Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

Which agent is NOT typically administered during rapid sequence intubation?

1. Sedatives

2. Anticholinergic

3. Platelet Aggregators

4. Paralyzing agent

The correct answer is: Platelet Aggregators

The agent that is not typically administered during rapid sequence intubation is a platelet aggregator. Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) involves the use of sedatives and paralytic agents to facilitate the endotracheal intubation of a patient while minimizing the risk of aspiration and maximizing procedural success. Sedatives are used to induce unconsciousness and provide analgesia, while paralyzing agents are employed to ensure muscle relaxation for easier placement of the endotracheal tube. An anticholinergic may sometimes be used, particularly in the context of decreasing secretions to reduce the risk of aspiration, but this does not directly aid in the intubation process itself. Platelet aggregators, however, are medications that prevent the clumping of platelets and are typically used in the management of cardiovascular conditions, not in the context of airway management or intubation. Therefore, their use is not relevant in the RSI protocol, distinguishing them from the other agents used in that critical situation.