How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is preparing to administer diltiazem IV 0.25 mg/kg IV bolus given over 2 min to a client who has atrial fibrillation and weighs 154 lb. Available is diltiazem IV injection 25 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?
(Round the answer to the nearest tenth. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)
Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is ["3.5"]

  1. Convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms:

    • 154 lb ÷ 2.2 lb/kg = 70 kg

  2. Calculate the total dose required:

    • 0.25 mg/kg × 70 kg = 17.5 mg

  3. Determine the volume to administer:

    • Given concentration: 5 mg/mL
    • 17.5 mg ÷ 5 mg/mL = 3.5 mL

  4. Rounding to the nearest tenth:

    • The answer remains 3.5 mL

So the nurse should administer 3.5 mL of diltiazem IV injection.

which is 17.5 mg / 5 mg/mL = 3.5 mL. Rounding to the nearest tenth, the nurse  should administer 3.5 mL of diltiazem IV injection.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is ["60"]

Explanation

To calculate the infusion rate of lidocaine, we need to convert the dose from mg/min to mg/hr and then to mL/hr.

The prescribed dose is 4 mg/min, so the hourly dose is 4 x 60 = 240 mg/hr.

The concentration of the drug is 1 g in 250 mL, which is equivalent to 1000 mg in 250 mL or 4 mg in 1 mL.

Therefore, the volume per hour is 240 / 4 = 60 mL/hr.

Rounded to the nearest whole number, the nurse should set the IV pump to deliver 60 mL/hr.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The medication is for IV administration: This cannot be assumed unless the label specifically states “for intravenous use.” Phenytoin comes in multiple formulations (oral suspension, tablets, IV), so route must be verified.
B. The total amount available per container is 4 mL: This is label-specific information. If the label indicates that each vial contains 4 mL, this is a factual and critical point to ensure accurate dosing.
C. The nurse should avoid shaking the medication: While some medications (e.g., suspensions) should not be shaken vigorously, phenytoin IV solution is not a suspension, and this instruction may not apply to all forms.
D. The medication should not be stored below 30°C (86°F): This is incorrect. Phenytoin should be stored at controlled room temperature, typically 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and protected from excessive heat or cold.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register