A piggyback of potassium chloride, 15 mEq in 250 mL of 0.9% saline, is prescribed to be infused over 1 hour to treat a patient's hypokalemia. What intervention should the nurse use prior to the start of the infusion?
a. Assess the IV cannula site to make sure the cannula is secure.
b. Obtain an EKG monitor to monitor the heart rhythm during the infusion.
c. Review the previous 24-hour intake and output.
d. Prepare an ice pack to place over the IV site to prevent thrombophlebitis.
ANS: B
A baseline EKG is warranted to detect any changes in cardiac rhythm, because potassium affects the myocardium.
Securing the cannula is important but not the most important consideration.
Intake and output are less important over 24 hours than ensuring that the patient is voiding.
Ice packs would not be indicated in this situation. Additionally, warm packs would be used if the development of thrombophlebitis was a concern.
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