Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a medication parenterally. Which of the following techniques should the nurse identify as effective in reducing fluctuations in plasma medication levels?

A. Gradually increasing the dose with the dosing interval
B. Administering a single loading IM dose
C. Using a large fluid-volume IV dose
D. Administering a continuous infusion of the dose

Answer 1

Administering a continuous infusion of medication is effective in reducing fluctuations in plasma levels when a drug is given parenterally. It creates a steady state of drug concentration in the plasma and is preferable over methods that can cause peaks and troughs.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse caring for a client receiving a medication parenterally may identify administering a continuous infusion of the dose as an effective technique to reduce fluctuations in plasma medication levels. This method ensures a steady state of drug concentration in the plasma, minimizing peaks and troughs that can occur with other administration methods such as bolus or intermittent dosing.

Dosage and Route of Administration are essential to consider for achieving therapeutic drug levels at the site of infection. It is crucial to consider the half-life of a drug, as drugs with shorter half-lives may require multiple doses a day, whereas drugs with longer half-lives might be dosed once daily. It is also essential to consider the drug metabolism and clearance, especially in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction, to prevent toxicity.