A nurse is caring for a client with severe hypokalemia. The provider places an order for IV potassium chloride (KCI) 60 mEq x1 now. Which action should the nurse take when caring for this client?
Discontinue cardiac monitoring during the infusion.
Administer KCI as a rapid IV bolus.
Only give the KCI via a central venous line.
Infuse the KCI at a rate of 10 mEq/hour.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Discontinue cardiac monitoring during the infusion:
Discontinuing cardiac monitoring during the infusion of potassium chloride is unsafe. Potassium infusions can significantly impact cardiac function, so continuous cardiac monitoring is necessary to detect any arrhythmias or other complications.
B) Administer KCI as a rapid IV bolus:
Administering potassium chloride as a rapid IV bolus is contraindicated due to the risk of severe adverse effects, including cardiac arrest. Potassium should be infused slowly to avoid complications.
C) Only give the KCI via a central venous line:
Potassium chloride is ideally administered through a central venous line because it is irritating to veins and can cause damage if given through a peripheral line. A central line reduces the risk of irritation and allows for safer infusion of potassium.
D) Infuse the KCI at a rate of 10 mEq/hour:
Infusing potassium chloride at a rate of 10 mEq/hour is generally too slow for an emergency situation requiring immediate correction of severe hypokalemia. For more urgent cases, higher rates may be required, but only under strict medical supervision to avoid complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) They must also take a vitamin D supplement: Calcium absorption is highly dependent on vitamin D, which facilitates the absorption of calcium in the intestines. Taking a vitamin D supplement alongside calcium ensures effective utilization of calcium, improving bone health and preventing deficiencies.
B) Reduce sodium intake: While reducing sodium intake can benefit overall health and reduce fluid retention, it is not directly related to the absorption of calcium supplements. The focus should be on ensuring adequate vitamin D levels for proper calcium absorption.
C) Decrease the amount of fiber in your diet: High fiber diets do not necessarily hinder calcium absorption to a significant extent. In fact, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate fiber is important for overall health. Fiber does not need to be reduced specifically for better calcium absorption.
D) Take the medication with orange juice to increase absorption: Orange juice is high in vitamin C, which does not significantly impact calcium absorption. Calcium supplements are best taken with vitamin D or with meals to enhance absorption, rather than with orange juice alone.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. 8 hr - Infusing one unit of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) over 8 hours is too long. Typically, PRBCs are infused over a shorter period to avoid complications.
B. 4 hr - Infusing PRBCs over 4 hours is still within acceptable limits, but the standard time for PRBC transfusion is usually shorter.
C. 6 hr - Infusing PRBCs over 6 hours is longer than usual. The recommended duration for infusing one unit of PRBCs is generally shorter.
D. 2 hr - The standard time to infuse one unit of PRBCs is typically between 1.5 to 2 hours. This duration helps ensure the effective delivery of red blood cells while minimizing the risk of transfusion reactions.
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