IV potassium chloride (KCl) 60 mEq is prescribed for treatment of a patient with severe hypokalemia. Which action should the nurse take?
a. Administer the KCl as a rapid IV bolus.
b. Infuse the KCl at a rate of 10 mEq/hour.
c. Only give the KCl through a central venous line.
d. Discontinue cardiac monitoring during the infusion.
ANS: B
IV KCl is administered at a maximal rate of 10 mEq/hr. Rapid IV infusion of KCl can cause cardiac arrest. Although the preferred concentration for KCl is no more than 40 mEq/L, concentrations up to 80 mEq/L may be used for some patients. KCl can cause inflammation of peripheral veins, but it can be administered by this route. Cardiac monitoring should be continued while patient is receiving potassium because of the risk for dysrhythmias.
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