When treating cardiogenic shock in children, what is the recommended duration to deliver a fluid challenge?

When treating cardiogenic shock in children, the recommended duration to deliver a fluid challenge is 10-20 minutes. This timeframe allows for effective administration of fluids while also enabling the healthcare team to monitor the child's response to the intervention. In cases of cardiogenic shock, it is essential to provide fluids at a pace that helps improve hemodynamics without risking fluid overload, which can worsen the patient's condition.

Administering fluids over too short a time (such as 5-10 minutes) may not allow sufficient time for the patient to exhibit any changes or response to the fluid bolus, making it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. Conversely, extending the duration to 30-45 minutes or 60 minutes might lead to unnecessary delays in clinical decision-making and interventions, especially in critical situations where prompt response is crucial. The 10-20 minute duration strikes a balance between efficacy and safety, making it the appropriate choice for effectively managing cardiogenic shock.