A nurse is preparing to administer ceftazidime 2 g via intermittent IV over 30 min to a client who has osteomyelitis. The amount available is ceftazidime 2 g/50 mL. The nurse should set the IV pump to deliver how many mL/hr?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

A. Nuchal rigidity refers to stiffness or resistance to neck movement, especially when the client's head is flexed forward. It is a classic sign of meningitis due to irritation and inflammation of the meninges (the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). This assessment helps to detect meningeal irritation, a hallmark of meningitis.

B. This action tests the deep tendon reflex, specifically the knee jerk reflex (patellar reflex). It assesses the integrity of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves. While it is part of a neurological assessment, it is not specifically related to the assessment of meningitis unless there are concurrent neurological symptoms or signs.

C This maneuver tests for Babinski reflex, which is an abnormal response where the toes flare upward and the big toe dorsiflexes when the sole of the foot is stimulated. A positive Babinski reflex can indicate dysfunction of the corticospinal tract or brain injury but is not a specific finding in meningitis.

D. Tapping the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) assesses for the presence of facial nerve irritation or damage. In the context of meningitis, signs such as facial twitching or asymmetry may indicate involvement of cranial nerves due to inflammation and pressure within the skull.

IV pump rate= (Volume to be infused (mL) × 60) / Time of infusion (min).

For the given scenario, the nurse has 50 mL to infuse over 30 minutes. Using the formula, Pump rate= (50 mL × 60) / 30 min= 100 mL/hr.

Therefore, the nurse should set the IV pump to deliver 100 mL/hr.