What is the maximum amount of medication that is usually administered subcutaneously?
0.5 ml.
1 ml.
2 ml.
1.5 ml.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Administering only 0.5 mL subcutaneously is a common volume for certain medications, but it is not the maximum. Larger volumes can sometimes be administered, depending on the site and medication characteristics, without causing undue tissue distention or discomfort.
Choice B rationale
The subcutaneous tissue layer has a limited capacity for fluid absorption, and volumes exceeding 1 mL can cause tissue distention, discomfort, and potentially impair absorption due to increased pressure. This volume minimizes local tissue irritation and ensures optimal medication uptake into the systemic circulation.
Choice C rationale
Administering 2 mL subcutaneously is generally discouraged due to the potential for significant tissue distention, discomfort, and pain. Such a large volume can also lead to poor absorption and increased risk of local adverse reactions, making it an impractical and often unsafe choice for routine subcutaneous injections.
Choice D rationale
While 1.5 mL is closer to the maximum, it often pushes the limits of comfortable and effective subcutaneous administration. This volume may cause considerable discomfort, particularly in clients with limited subcutaneous tissue, and can compromise absorption rates.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2590/2000"]
Explanation
INTAKE:.
Step 1: Jevity (Tube feeding) 50 mL/hr × 12 hours = 600 mL.
Step 2: oz free water tube feeding flush. Convert ounces to milliliters: 6 oz × 30 mL/oz = 180 mL.
Step 3: units of PRBCs (250 mL/each) = 2 × 250 mL = 500 mL.
Step 4: Zosyn IV 50 mL.
Step 5: oz ice chips. Convert ounces to milliliters (ice chips are typically calculated as half their volume in liquid): 4 oz × 30 mL/oz = 120 mL; 120 mL ÷ 2 = 60 mL.
Step 6:.9% NS 100 mL/hr × 12 hours = 1200 mL.
Step 7: Total Intake = 600 mL + 180 mL + 500 mL + 50 mL + 60 mL + 1200 mL = 2590 mL. OUTPUT:.
Step 1: NG Suction: 50 mL.
Step 2: Urine: 1850 mL.
Step 3: Wound vac: 100 mL.
Step 4: Total Output = 50 mL + 1850 mL + 100 mL = 2000 mL. Answer: INTAKE: 2590 mL / OUTPUT: 2000 mL.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using a large bore needle (e.g., 18-gauge) for withdrawing medication from an ampule is generally avoided unless the medication is highly viscous, because it can create a larger hole in the ampule, increasing the risk of glass particle introduction. The primary concern with ampules is preventing glass shards from entering the syringe, which is addressed by filtration, not needle bore size alone.
Choice B rationale
Ampules are single-dose glass containers. When an ampule is opened, small, invisible glass fragments can break off. A filter needle contains a microscopic filter that traps these glass particles, preventing their aspiration into the syringe and subsequent injection into the patient, thus mitigating the risk of phlebitis, emboli, or other complications from particulate matter.
Choice C rationale
A small gauge needle (e.g., 25-gauge) has a very narrow lumen, which would make withdrawing medication from an ampule unnecessarily difficult and slow, especially for viscous solutions. Furthermore, a small gauge needle does not mitigate the risk of glass particle aspiration, which is the paramount concern when withdrawing medication from a glass ampule.
Choice D rationale
Placing a cotton ball over the opening of an ampule is not a scientifically sound method to prevent being cut or to prevent glass shards from entering the medication. Ampules are designed to be broken cleanly. Proper ampule opening techniques and the use of a filter needle are the established safety measures to prevent injury and contamination.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.