Final answer:
The aide must prepare an IV solution by diluting a stock solution of KCl to the ordered concentration of 0.5% for 100mL, as a pre-made bag with the exact concentration is unlikely to be available. Normal blood K⁺ levels should be considered when preparing IV solutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When treating a patient with hypokalemia, the suitable concentration of K⁺ for intravenous administration via a peripheral vein is critical. In a hospital setting, if a physician orders an IV delivery of 100 mL of 0.5% KCl, a medical aide is not likely to find a pre-made IV bag with this specific concentration. Instead, the aide must perform a dilution. For example, if the stock solution is 10.0% KCl, to get a final concentration of 0.5% in a 100 mL solution, they would use the formula: (10%) V₁ = (0.5%)(100 mL)
This would result in V₁, the volume of the stock solution needed, equaling 5 mL. This stock solution is then added to the sterile IV bag and diluted with a sterile solution to reach the desired concentration. The normal blood potassium level is around 14-20 mg/100 ml, and IV solutions are formulated to maintain the electrolyte balance similar to body fluids, which for potassium is approximately 4 mEq/L in solutions like Ringer's lactate.