Use Case Study to answer the following questions.
Which nursing intervention is most appropriate when administering IV potassium chloride?
Mix with a dextrose solution only
Administer as a rapid IV push
Monitor for signs of hypernatremia
Ensure the infusion diluted and given via an IV pump
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Mix with a dextrose solution only: Potassium can be mixed in various compatible solutions (such as 0.9% NS or D5½NS). There is no requirement that potassium chloride must be mixed only with dextrose-containing fluids.
B. Administer as a rapid IV push: This is dangerous and contraindicated. IV potassium must never be given as a rapid IV push or bolus, as it can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias. It must be diluted and administered slowly.
C. Monitor for signs of hypernatremia: While electrolyte monitoring is important, hypernatremia is not the main concern when administering potassium. The nurse should focus on monitoring potassium levels and cardiac status.
D. Ensure the infusion is diluted and given via an IV pump: IV potassium chloride must always be diluted in an appropriate IV fluid and administered via an infusion pump to control the rate and avoid complications such as arrhythmias and vein irritation. Also, the infusion rate should typically not exceed 10 mEq/hr through a peripheral vein.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["0.5"]
Explanation
Rationale:
To calculate the correct dose:
Ordered dose: 12.5 mg
Available dose: 25 mg per suppository
Calculation:
12.5 mg ÷ 25 mg = 0.5 suppository
The nurse will administer 0.5 suppository rectally.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Request a potassium replacement: The client's potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L, which indicates hypokalemia (normal range: 3.5–5.0 mEq/L). TPN can cause electrolyte shifts, so potassium supplementation is appropriate and should be initiated to prevent complications like arrhythmias and muscle weakness.
B. Administer glucagon IM: This is used to treat severe hypoglycemia. The client’s glucose is 72 mg/dL, which is within the normal range (70–100 mg/dL fasting), so glucagon is not needed.
C. Check the client for a positive Chvostek's sign: Chvostek’s sign is associated with hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia, and calcium levels were not mentioned as abnormal here.
D. Discontinue the TPN infusion: Discontinuing TPN is not appropriate without a critical reason. Electrolyte imbalances are common during TPN therapy and are typically managed by adjusting the TPN formulation rather than stopping it altogether.
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