A nurse is caring for a client who is to receive potassium replacement. The provider's prescription reads, "Potassium chloride 30 mEq in 0.9% sodium chloride 100 mL IV over 30 min." For which of the following reasons should the nurse clarify this prescription with the provider?
The client should be treated by giving potassium by IV bolus.
Another formulation of potassium should be given IV.
Potassium chloride should be diluted in dextrose 5% in water.
The potassium infusion rate is too rapid.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
IV bolus administration of potassium is not appropriate due to the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Choice B rationale:
The formulation of potassium (potassium chloride) is appropriate for IV administration.
Choice C rationale:
Potassium chloride is typically diluted in normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) for IV administration, not dextrose.
Choice D rationale:
The prescribed infusion rate of 30 mEq of potassium chloride over 30 minutes is too rapid and could lead to adverse effects, such as cardiac arrhythmias. The nurse should clarify the prescription and discuss a slower infusion rate with the provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A hematocrit (Hct) level of 44% is within the normal range for adults.
Choice B rationale:
A white blood cell (WBC) count of 5,000/mm3 falls within the normal range.
Choice C rationale:
Total bilirubin levels greater than 1.2 mg/dL in adults could indicate liver dysfunction and should be reported to the provider when assessing a client on amitriptyline, which can affect liver function.
Choice D rationale:
A potassium level of 4.2 mEq/L falls within the normal range for potassium levels.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A BUN level of 16 mg/dL is within a normal range.
Choice B rationale:
A potassium level of 5.3 mEq/L is higher than the normal range (typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic, and if the client's potassium level is already elevated, it should be withheld to prevent hyperkalemia.
Choice C rationale:
A sodium level of 142 mEq/L is within a normal range.
Choice D rationale:
An albumin level of 4 g/dL is within a normal range.
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