A patient with a potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is prescribed potassium chloride, 40 mEq I.V. The patient only has a peripheral I.V. The nurse should administer this medication:

Explanation

•Potassium chloride should be administered at a rate of 10 mEq per hour when using a peripheral I.V. (20 mEq per hour with a central line) to reduce injection site irritation.

•Potassium administered at a rate exceeding 40 mEq per hour may result in lethal arrhythmias.

•Central venous access is not needed, but preferred.

•Lidocaine should only be given I.V. to treat lethal ventricular arrhythmias.

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!