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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing the patch in the same location repeatedly can lead to skin irritation, reduced absorption due to stratum corneum thickening, and localized adverse reactions. Rotation of application sites allows the skin to recover, maintains optimal drug absorption, and prevents cumulative dermal irritation.
Choice B rationale
Transdermal patches often contain significant amounts of medication, including controlled substances or potent drugs. Discarding them in the trash can poses risks of accidental exposure to others, environmental contamination, and diversion. Proper disposal protocols, such as flushing or returning to pharmacy, are crucial.
Choice C rationale
While transdermal patches are designed for systemic absorption, specific sites are recommended to optimize efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Areas with less hair, intact skin, and good circulation are preferred. Improper placement can lead to erratic absorption or local irritation, reducing therapeutic benefit.
Choice D rationale
The nurse should always wear gloves when handling transdermal patches to prevent direct skin contact with the medication. Many transdermal drugs can be absorbed through the nurse's skin, leading to unintended pharmacological effects or sensitization. Gloves provide a crucial barrier against dermal absorption.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ordering a trough level 4 hours before the next scheduled dose would likely result in an inaccurate reading. The trough level represents the lowest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream, typically occurring just before the next dose, ensuring that the drug concentration remains within the therapeutic range to exert its pharmacological effect.
Choice B rationale
Obtaining a trough level 24 hours after the drug was given is too late and would not provide an accurate assessment of the drug's lowest concentration before the subsequent dose. By this time, depending on the drug's half-life, the concentration may be significantly lower or undetectable, making it irrelevant for therapeutic monitoring.
Choice C rationale
The trough level of a medication is measured to ensure that the drug concentration remains above the minimum effective concentration and below toxic levels. Collecting the blood sample 30 minutes before the administration of the next dose allows the drug to reach its lowest concentration in the systemic circulation, providing an accurate representation of the drug's true trough level.
Choice D rationale
Measuring the drug level 1 hour after the medication has been infused would represent a concentration much closer to the peak level, not the trough. The peak level indicates the maximum drug concentration, typically occurring shortly after administration or infusion, and is used to assess for potential toxicity or adequate absorption.
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