What is the post-intubation management dose of ketamine?

The appropriate post-intubation management dose of ketamine is typically in the range of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg. Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, is commonly used in emergency and critical care settings due to its analgesic and sedative properties. In the context of post-intubation management, it helps facilitate the comfort of patients who are mechanically ventilated or those requiring sedation after endotracheal intubation.

The lower dose range, 0.5 to 1 mg/kg, is generally adequate for maintaining sedation while minimizing the risk of excessive respiratory depression or prolonged sedation. This dosing strategy aligns with the goal of achieving effective sedation without compromising patient safety. In this scenario, using doses higher than 1 mg/kg may increase the risk of adverse effects and prolonged sedation, which can be counterproductive in a critical care setting where patient responsiveness is necessary for ongoing assessment and management.