What is the most accurate indicator of fluid loss or gain in acutely ill patients?

This is because intravenous potassium supplementation is indicated for patients with profound hypokalemia (plasma K+ <2.5 mmol/L) or cardiac arrhythmia. The rate of infusion should not exceed 10 mmol/hour to prevent complications such as hyperkalemia, cardiac arrhythmias, and phlebitis.

Choice A is wrong because monitoring urine output every 8 hours is not sufficient to prevent complications from intravenous potassium replacement therapy.

Urine output should be monitored more frequently (at least every 4 hours) to assess renal function and fluid balance.

Choice B is wrong because administering potassium via a bolus injection is dangerous and can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias.

Potassium should never be given by intravenous push or intramuscular injection.

Choice D is wrong because encouraging the client to eat potassium-rich foods is not appropriate for patients receiving intravenous potassium replacement therapy.

Oral potassium supplementation is preferred for patients with mild to moderate hypokalemia (plasma K+ 2.5-3.5 mmol/L) who can eat and absorb oral potassium.

Potassium-rich foods include potatoes, legumes, juices, seafood, leafy greens, dairy, tomatoes and bananas.

This is the only solution that is isotonic and compatible with blood products. It will not cause hemolysis or clotting of the blood cells.

Choice B is wrong because lactated Ringer’s is a balanced electrolyte solution that contains calcium, which can cause clotting of the blood cells.

Choice C is wrong because 5% dextrose is a hypotonic solution that can cause hemolysis of the blood cells.

Choice D is wrong because 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution that can cause hemolysis of the blood cells.