Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 94%
Simulated
A nurse is assisting with preparations for administering intravenous potassium replacement supplements to a client who has a potassium level of 2.5 mg. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to include?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A. Placing the patient on a cardiac monitor is crucial when administering intravenous potassium replacement due to the potential risk of cardiac arrhythmias associated with low potassium levels. Checking the patency of the IV ensures the proper delivery of the potassium supplement without causing complications like phlebitis or infiltration.
Choice B is incorrect because administering potassium intravenously in an IV push bolus can lead to adverse effects such as tissue irritation and cardiac arrest.
Choice C is incorrect as discontinuing other medications without consulting the healthcare provider may be detrimental to the patient's overall health.
Choice D is incorrect as avoiding potassium-rich foods in the diet is not necessary when administering intravenous potassium replacement since the goal is to rapidly increase potassium levels to a safe range.
In summary, choice A is the correct action to ensure patient safety and effective potassium replacement therapy.
Choice B is incorrect because administering potassium intravenously in an IV push bolus can lead to adverse effects such as tissue irritation and cardiac arrest.
Choice C is incorrect as discontinuing other medications without consulting the healthcare provider may be detrimental to the patient's overall health.
Choice D is incorrect as avoiding potassium-rich foods in the diet is not necessary when administering intravenous potassium replacement since the goal is to rapidly increase potassium levels to a safe range.
In summary, choice A is the correct action to ensure patient safety and effective potassium replacement therapy.