What is the maximum amount of medication that is usually administered subcutaneously?

0.5 ml.

1 ml.

2 ml.

1.5 ml.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Inspection, as the initial assessment technique, relies on keen observation and often feels natural and comfortable for experienced practitioners. Expertise enhances the ability to systematically identify subtle visual cues, skin color changes, or movement abnormalities. The discomfort suggestion is incongruent with the skilled and focused nature of effective clinical inspection.

Choice B rationale

Inspection demands a comprehensive, unhurried visual assessment, not just a quick glance. A thorough inspection involves observing body systems methodically, noting details like symmetry, posture, gait, and superficial lesions. Rushing this phase can lead to missed crucial information, as many conditions present with visible signs that require careful scrutiny.

Choice C rationale

The inspection phase is foundational and remarkably informative, providing extensive data through meticulous observation of visible characteristics. It encompasses general appearance, facial expressions, body symmetry, skin condition, and respiratory effort. This detailed visual survey often reveals significant diagnostic clues even before physical contact, guiding subsequent assessment steps.

Choice D rationale

Inspection is an exceptionally rich source of information, contrary to yielding little. It provides a holistic view of the patient's immediate condition, including their overall demeanor, signs of distress, nutritional status, and any overt physical abnormalities. Many diagnoses are initially suggested or confirmed through careful visual inspection, making it indispensable.

A. 4 hours before the next scheduled dose. B. 24 hours after the drug was given. C. 30 minutes before the administration of the drug. D. 1 hour after the medication has been infused.

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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What is the maximum amount of medication that is usually administered subcutaneously?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment. Which statement is true about the physical assessment? The inspection phase:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse must monitor the trough level of medication. When would the nurse order the trough level?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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