The healthcare provider has prescribed an intermittent intravenous (IV) infusion of potassium chloride for a client experiencing severe hypokalemia. Which of the following safety measures must the registered nurse implement? Select all that apply.
- Verify that the client has a urine output of at least 30 mL/hr before initiating the infusion.Answer
- BProgram the infusion pump to deliver the potassium at a rate of 40 mEq per hour.
- Administer the solution using an electronic volumetric infusion pump.Answer
- DDelegate the ongoing assessment of the peripheral IV site to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).
- Assess the intravenous insertion site for patency and signs of infiltration prior to beginning the infusion.Answer
- FInfuse the potassium chloride through the same IV tubing as a prescribed antibiotic without verifying fluid compatibility.
Answer
The correct safety measures are verifying that the client has adequate urine output, administering the solution using an electronic infusion pump, and assessing the IV site for patency before the infusion begins.
Intravenous potassium chloride requires strict adherence to safety protocols. The nurse must verify adequate renal function (urine output of at least 30 mL/hr) because potassium is excreted by the kidneys; poor renal function can lead to life-threatening hyperkalemia. It must always be administered using an electronic volumetric infusion pump to guarantee a precise rate and prevent rapid infusion. Furthermore, because potassium can cause severe tissue damage if it leaks into surrounding tissues, assessing the IV site for patency and infiltration before administration is mandatory.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Administration of Intravenous Potassium Chloride