A nurse is assessing a client who has hypermagnesemia. Which of the following medications should the nurse prepare to administer?

A. Another formulation of potassium should be given IV: The type of potassium formulation isn't the issue in this scenario.

B. Potassium chloride should be diluted in dextrose 5% in water: While potassium chloride can be administered in different solutions, the primary concern here is the infusion rate, not the specific diluent.

C. The client should be treated by giving potassium by IV bolus: The concern here is the rate of administration, not the route. Potassium is commonly administered through an IV infusion rather than a bolus due to the risk of cardiac arrhythmias associated with rapid administration.

D. A nurse is caring for a client who is to receive potassium replacement. The nurse should clarify the prescription with the provider because the potassium infusion rate is too rapid.

The prescription indicates that the client should receive potassium chloride 30 mEq in 0.9% sodium chloride 100 mL IV over 30 minutes. This rate of administration is too fast for potassium replacement and could lead to potentially serious complications, such as hyperkalemia or cardiac arrhythmias. The typical recommended rate for potassium replacement is 10-20 mEq/hour, and this prescription exceeds that range.

A. Use a gravity flow set:
Incorrect Explanation: Using a gravity flow set is not appropriate for administering amphotericin B lipid complex.
Explanation: Amphotericin B lipid complex is typically administered using a dedicated infusion pump to ensure accurate control over the infusion rate and to prevent potential complications.
B. Discard the medication if it is yellow:
Incorrect Explanation: Discarding the medication solely based on its color may not be accurate for the amphotericin B lipid complex.
Explanation: Amphotericin B lipid complex may appear yellowish, and the color itself is not necessarily an indication of its potency or stability. It's important to follow specific guidelines provided by the pharmacy or manufacturer for assessing the integrity of the medication.
C. Prime the tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride:
Correct Answer: Priming the tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride is the appropriate action to ensure the medication is properly administered.
Explanation: Priming the tubing with a compatible solution, such as 0.9% sodium chloride, helps prevent the medication from adhering to the tubing and ensures that the full dose reaches the client.
D. Administer the medication over 2 hr:
Incorrect Explanation: Administering amphotericin B lipid complex over 2 hours is not the standard infusion time.
Explanation: Amphotericin B lipid complex is typically administered over a longer period, often 2-6 hours. However, the specific infusion rate and duration may vary based on the client's condition and the healthcare provider's orders.