A client with multiple sclerosis (MS) is receiving interferon beta-1b 0.1875 mg subcutaneously every other day. The nurse reconstitutes the vial by slowly injecting 1.2 mL of diluent into the interferon vial for a reconstituted solution of 0.25 mg/1 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

(Enter numeric value only. If rounding is required, round to the nearest hundredth.)

To calculate the flow rate in gtt/min, you can use the formula: (Volume in mL * Drop factor) / Time in
minutes.

For 1 L of lactated Ringer's IV, which is 1000 mL, to be infused over 12 hours, with an IV administration set that delivers 15 gtt/mL, the calculation would be: (1000 mL * 15 gtt/mL) / (12 hours * 60 minutes/hour).

This simplifies to (15000 gtt) / (720 minutes), which equals approximately 20.83 gtt/min.

Therefore, the nurse should regulate the infusion to 21 gtt/min, rounding to the nearest whole
number.

A. Perform pulmonary function test
This is important for assessing lung function, but it is not an immediate priority during an acute exacerbation when the patient's oxygen saturation is low and they are experiencing respiratory distress.
Pulmonary function testing can be done once the patient's acute symptoms are stabilized.
B. Measure vital signs
While vital signs are important for ongoing assessment, the patient's vital signs were already assessed at admission and are being monitored every 4 hours as per orders.
Administering oxygen and albuterol to stabilize the patient's condition takes precedence over routine vital sign checks immediately after the initial assessment.
C. Provide a regular diet tray
This is a routine aspect of care and does not address the acute respiratory distress or hypoxemia that require immediate attention.
It can be done once the patient's respiratory status has stabilized.
D. Give albuterol as ordered
The patient is experiencing an asthma exacerbation with wheezing and subcostal retractions. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow.
It was ordered for nebulization now and every 4 hours PRN (as needed) for wheezing.
Administering albuterol promptly is crucial to help alleviate respiratory distress and improve lung function.
E. Apply oxygen 1 L/minute
The patient's oxygen saturation is 91% on room air, which is below the target of greater than 94%. Oxygen therapy is indicated to correct hypoxemia and improve oxygen saturation.
The order specifies to titrate oxygen to keep saturation greater than 94%, starting at 1 L/minute via nasal cannula.