acute managment of cyanotic congenital heart disease

Last reviewed 01/2018

Principles of managment of a acutely cyanotic infant with a heart lesion include:

  • prostaglandin E2 infusions in duct dependant lesions. Note that prostaglandin is contraindicated in total anomolous pulmonary venous return.
  • supportive measures including:
    • maintain temperature
    • correct acidosis
    • intravenous dextrose to maintain blood glucose

Transfer to a cardiac centre should be considered early in the management, but in most cases should be delayed until the child is stabilised.