Upon reviewing morning laboratory results, the registered nurse notes a client's potassium level is mEq/L. The healthcare provider has ordered mEq of intravenous potassium chloride. Which method represents the correct administration technique for this high-alert medication?
- ADelivering the medication via a slow intravenous push over to minutes to rapidly correct the critical electrolyte deficit.
- BSetting the electronic infusion pump to deliver the total dose over a -minute period through a standard peripheral venous catheter.
- Ensuring the medication is diluted in a compatible solution and delivered via an electronic pump at a maximum rate of mEq per hour.Answer
- DInjecting the prescribed dose into the currently infusing primary bag of maintenance fluids to minimize the risk of fluid overload.
Answer
Ensuring the medication is diluted in a compatible solution and delivered via an electronic pump at a maximum rate of mEq per hour.
Intravenous potassium chloride is a high-alert medication that must always be diluted and administered via an electronic infusion pump to prevent fatal cardiac dysrhythmias. For a peripheral intravenous line, the maximum safe infusion rate is mEq per hour. This standard ensures the medication is delivered slowly enough to prevent severe irritation to the vein and avoids sudden spikes in serum potassium that could precipitate cardiac arrest.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Administration of Intravenous Potassium