The nurse is caring for a newly admitted patient who has severe gastroenteritis.The patient's electrolytes reveal a serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L and a serum potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L.The nurse receives an order for intravenous 5% dextrose and normal saline with 20 mEq/L potassium chloride to infuse at 125 mL per hour.Which action is necessary prior to administering this fluid?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the patient is receiving potassium and the urine output is <25 mL/hr or <600 mL/d,potassium accumulation may occur.Patients with a low urine output should not receive IV potassium.Arterial blood gases are not necessary prior to IV potassium administration.Potassium should never be given as a bolus.Patients should be put on a potassium-enriched diet when foods are tolerated.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Newly Admitted Patient Who