A nurse is preparing to administer 40 mg of furosemide IV. Available is furosemide 10 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer per dose?

Choice A reason:

Administer 50,000 units of heparin by IV bolus every 12 hours: This dosage is incorrect and potentially dangerous. Heparin dosing must be carefully calculated based on the patient’s weight and coagulation test results. Standard practice involves adjusting the dose according to the aPTT levels to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation.

Choice B reason:

Have vitamin K available on the nursing unit: Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin, not heparin. The antidote for heparin is protamine sulfate. Having the correct antidote available is crucial for managing potential bleeding complications associated with heparin therapy.

Choice C reason:

Use tubing specific for heparin sodium when administering the infusion: While it is important to use appropriate tubing for any IV medication, there is no specific tubing required exclusively for heparin sodium. Standard IV tubing is typically sufficient.

Choice D reason:

Check the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) every 6 hours: This is correct. Monitoring aPTT levels is essential when administering a continuous heparin infusion. The aPTT test measures the time it takes for blood to clot and helps ensure that the heparin dose is within the therapeutic range. Regular monitoring helps prevent both under- and over-anticoagulation, reducing the risk of clotting or bleeding complications.

Choice A reason:

Don sterile gloves: While it is important to maintain cleanliness, sterile gloves are not necessary for administering a suppository. Clean, non-sterile gloves are sufficient to prevent infection and ensure hygiene.

Choice B reason:

Position the client supine with knees bent: The correct position for administering a suppository is the left lateral (Sims) position, not supine with knees bent. The left lateral position allows for easier access to the rectum and helps the suppository stay in place.

Choice C reason:

Use a rectal applicator for insertion: Suppositories are typically inserted using a gloved finger, not a rectal applicator. The gloved finger allows for better control and ensures the suppository is placed correctly.

Choice D reason:

Insert the suppository just beyond the internal sphincter: This is correct. The suppository should be inserted past the internal sphincter to ensure it stays in place and can dissolve properly. This placement helps the medication to be absorbed effectively.

Choice E reason:

Lubricate the index finger: Lubricating the index finger is essential to make the insertion process smoother and more comfortable for the client. It helps prevent trauma to the rectal mucosa and ensures the suppository is inserted easily.