Rapid intravenous infusion of calcium gluconate may cause which of the following adverse effects?

• A. Bradycardia and hypotension
• B. Tachycardia and hypertension
• C. Vasoconstriction and cardiac arrest
• D. No adverse effects

Answer: (A)

Rapid IV administration of calcium gluconate can directly slow the heart and reduce cardiac output, leading to bradycardia and a drop in blood pressure. The sudden rise in calcium levels with a fast infusion can disrupt cardiac conduction and overwhelm the body's ability to maintain adequate perfusion, so monitoring during administration is essential. This is why bradycardia and hypotension are the typical adverse effects when calcium gluconate is given too quickly. Local vascular irritation or tissue injury can occur if the solution extravasates, but the prominent systemic risk with rapid infusion is the combination of slow heart rate and low blood pressure.