The client asks the nursing student to crush her medications and put them in apple sauce. Even before the student researches the medications, he knows that the tablet he cannot deliver in this manner is:

Choice A rationale: Intravenous administration results in the most predictable onset and complete bioavailability to the client, as the medication goes directly into the bloodstream.

Choice B rationale: Oral administration is subject to factors such as absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, which can affect predictability and bioavailability.

Choice C rationale: Subcutaneous administration can be affected by factors like absorption rates and tissue characteristics, leading to variations in onset and bioavailability.

Choice D rationale: Transdermal administration has a slower onset and may be influenced by factors such as skin integrity and blood flow.

Choice A rationale: Diluting potassium elixir in juice is not a priority intervention for a critically elevated potassium level. Immediate actions are needed.

Choice B rationale: Monitoring intake and output is important, but it is not the highest priority when the potassium level is critically elevated.

Choice C rationale: Assessing the client for muscle weakness and flaccid paralysis is a high priority because hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac and neuromuscular complications.

Choice D rationale: Encouraging intake of orange juice or a banana may be appropriate for managing mild hypokalemia, but it is not the priority for a client with critically elevated potassium.

Choice E rationale: Obtaining a physician's order for cardiac monitoring is crucial, as hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias.