Final answer:
KCl must be diluted before IV administration, involving a calculation for the appropriate amount of stock solution. Direct injection without dilution occurs in controlled scenarios like open-heart surgery. Proper dilution and administration of KCl are critical due to its potential dangers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rules surrounding KCl (potassium chloride) administration in the context of IV Line Maintenance Standards include the necessity for diluting the potassium chloride before administration. The process involves using a sterile solution as a base and adding a concentrated stock solution of KCl to achieve the required concentration for the patient's needs. This is a common practice in medical settings, especially when treating conditions like hypokalemia, where patients have low potassium levels. To prepare a dilution, medical personnel must calculate the correct volume of the stock solution to add to the IV bag. For example, to make a 100 mL of 0.5% KCl solution from a 10% stock solution, you would use the dilution calculation (10%)V1 = (0.50%)(100 mL), resulting in the need for 5 mL of stock solution.
However, there are exceptions, such as when KCl is used to stop a beating heart during open-heart surgery, where it is injected directly into the cardiac muscle without dilution. In any case, whether for dilution or otherwise, KCl is handled with extreme care due to its potentially dangerous effects when administered improperly, and its administration is typically reserved for trained medical professionals following specific protocols.