A nurse is scheduled to administer a potassium supplement to a client. Which action should the nurse take prior to administering the drug?

Question

1. Check the client's potassium level from the morning labs.
2. Tell the client that the infusion will burn.
3. Place the client in a low Fowler's position.
4. Ask the client why the medication is ordered.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Serial serum potassium levels should be monitored before and during therapy.
Rationale 2: The client should report pain at the IV site.
Rationale 3: The client should be in an upright or standing position to avoid esophagitis.
Rationale 4: Prior to assessing the client's knowledge level about the drug, the nurse should be sure it is an appropriate medication to administer.
Global Rationale: Serial serum potassium levels should be monitored before and during therapy. The client should report pain at the IV site. The client should be in an upright or standing position to avoid esophagitis. Prior to assessing the client's knowledge level about the drug, the nurse should be sure it is an appropriate medication to administer.