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- produces a dissociative state of anesthesia 
- the sympathetic nervous system is activated causing an increase in HR and BP which makes it an ideal agent for hypovolemic pts 
- ketamine is a direct myocardial depressant and should be used cautiously w/ CAD; 
- ketamine is a potent cerebral vasodilator and is contra-indicated in pts w/ an increased intracranial pressure or a space occupying lesion;
- emergence of delirium and hallucinations may occur in up to 30% of pts; 
- Pediatric Dosing: 
- 4 mg/kg IM 
- consider dosing with Atropine 0.1 mg/kg ? for childre < 5 yrs