Question

When administering intravenous (IV) fluid, it is essential to never give more than ____ of potassium per liter.

A) 10 mEq
B) 20 mEq
C) 40 mEq
D) 60 mEq

Answer 1

It is essential to administer no more than 40 mEq of potassium per liter of intravenous (IV) fluid to prevent hyperkalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

When administering intravenous (IV) fluid, it is essential to never give more than 40 mEq of potassium per liter. This is to prevent hyperkalemia, which is an abnormally high level of potassium in the blood that can have serious cardiac implications. A common concentration of potassium in IV solutions expressed by medical professionals is around 4 mEq/L, as seen in Ringer's lactate solution, which is a physiologically compatible composition resembling the body's natural electrolyte balance.