A client is to receive 250 mL of IV fluid over 90 minutes by gravity.

The drop factor on the IV tubing is 20 gtts/mL. How many gtts/min should be administered?

Step 1 is calculate intake from lactated Ringer’s: 150 mL/hr × 9 hrs = 1350 mL.

Step 2 is calculate cefazolin intake: 100 mL × 1 dose = 100 mL.

Step 3 is calculate intake from two units of packed RBCs: 275 mL + 250 mL = 525 mL.

Step 4 is calculate intake from two IV boluses: 250 mL × 2 = 500 mL.

Step 5 is calculate intake from ranitidine infusion: 50 mL × 1 dose = 50 mL.

Step 6 is calculate total intake: 1350 mL + 100 mL + 525 mL + 500 mL + 50 mL = 2525 mL. Final calculated intake is 2525 mL.

Choice A rationale

Hypertension is not the primary concern in cervical spinal cord injuries at C-3, where respiratory compromise due to diaphragm paralysis is the leading cause of complications or mortality.

Choice B rationale

Bradycardia can occur due to vagal stimulation in spinal injuries but is less life-threatening compared to the respiratory compromise caused by diaphragmatic paralysis.

Choice C rationale

Sepsis may develop in spinal cord injury patients, particularly from infections like pneumonia or urinary tract infections, but respiratory failure is the most acute concern at C-3.

Choice D rationale

Respiratory compromise occurs due to impaired diaphragm function at C-3, making it the primary cause of morbidity or mortality, necessitating prompt respiratory support and monitoring.