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Updated: Aug 3, 2026

Description of a Swine Infant Model of Volume-Controlled Hemorrhagic Shock
Published on: November 3, 2023
Insights
Pediatric hypertensive crisis can be effectively managed with prompt pharmacologic agents. Diazoxide is recommended first for encephalopathy, with sodium nitroprusside as a second option if needed.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Hypertensive crisis in children requires rapid and effective treatment.
- Pharmacologic agents offer diverse options for managing elevated blood pressure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline effective pharmacologic strategies for pediatric hypertensive crisis.
- To guide the selection of appropriate agents based on clinical presentation.
Main Methods:
- Review of pharmacologic agents used in treating hypertensive crisis.
- Discussion of agent selection based on severity and specific complications like encephalopathy.
Main Results:
- Diazoxide is a primary choice for hypertensive encephalopathy.
- Sodium nitroprusside is indicated for cases unresponsive to initial therapy.
- Reserpine and hydralazine are effective for less severe acute elevations.
Conclusions:
- Prompt pharmacologic intervention ensures effective management of pediatric hypertensive crisis.
- Strategic agent selection optimizes patient outcomes and prevents complications.
Abstract:
The availability and rapidity of onset of pharmacologic agents for the treatment of hypertensive crisis allow the pediatrician to treat nearly every case effectively. Diazoxide seems to be the agent of choice as a first drug for the patient with encephalopathy. Failure of the blood pressure to respond to this agent should lead to consideration of the use of sodium nitroprusside. The possibility of the presence of a cathecholamine-secreting tumor should also be considered in these rare patients. In less severe cases, reserpine and hydralazine--alone or in combination--offer sufficiently rapid and prolonged action to prevent the development of encephalopathy in patients with acute elevations of blood pressure.
Related Concept Videos
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hypertension I: Introduction
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications
Hypertension V: Nursing Management

