Why is it important for the nurse to collect information from the patient about the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)?

To determine how many milliliters (mL) of potassium chloride the nurse should administer to provide 30 mEq, we can set up a proportion:

20 mEq is contained in 15 mL. So, to find out how many mL contain 30 mEq, we can set up the proportion:

20 mEq:15 mL=30 mEq:𝑥 mL20mEq:15mL=30mEq:xmL

Cross multiply:

20×𝑥=15×3020×x=15×30

20𝑥=45020x=450

Now, solve for 𝑥x:

𝑥=45020x=20450

𝑥=22.5x=22.5

So, the nurse should administer approximately 22.5 mL of potassium chloride.

Rounded to the nearest whole number, this would be 23 mL.

Therefore, the nurse should administer 23 mL of potassium chloride.

A. Labeling is not always reliable and herbal products should be used with caution. Herbal products are not subject to the same rigorous regulations and testing as pharmaceutical drugs. Therefore, their labeling may not always be accurate or comprehensive. Patients need to be aware of potential risks, interactions, and variations in potency associated with herbal products. Education helps patients make informed decisions and use these products safely.

B. Herbal products are approved under strict FDA regulations. This statement is false. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal products are regulated as dietary supplements in the United States and are not subject to the same level of scrutiny and approval processes by the FDA. While the FDA regulates the manufacturing and labeling of dietary supplements, including herbal products, the standards are not as strict as those for prescription or over-the-counter medications.

C. There are so few side effects, and they can be purchased without a prescription. This statement is misleading and potentially dangerous. Herbal products can indeed have side effects and interactions with medications, and their safety profiles vary widely. Additionally, the availability of herbal products without a prescription does not necessarily imply safety. Patients need education to understand potential risks and benefits associated with herbal product use.

D. The manufacturer has repeatedly demonstrated effectiveness. This statement is unsubstantiated and may not be true for all herbal products. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal products often lack extensive scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for specific indications. While some manufacturers may conduct studies to support their products' efficacy, the evidence may be limited or inconclusive. Patients need education to critically evaluate claims of effectiveness and make informed decisions about herbal product use.