Final answer:
When administering IV potassium chloride for hypokalemia, the nurse must dilute a concentrated stock solution to the prescribed concentration, calculate the amount necessary for the correct final volume, inject it into an IV bag, and ensure the bag is accurately labeled with the potassium volume.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a patient with hypokalemia, the administration of intravenous potassium chloride (IV KCl) is a critical intervention. To ensure safe and effective preparation and administration, the nurse should adhere to specific actions. Initially, the nurse should verify the physician’s order and understand the concentration required. Then the nurse should gather an IV bag of sterile solution and a concentrated, sterile stock solution of KCl. Using a syringe, the nurse will then draw up the correct amount of stock solution—if a 10.0% stock solution is used and a 0.5% final solution is needed for a total of 100 mL, then 5 mL of the stock solution should be drawn up and added to the IV bag to achieve the necessary dilution.
After adjusting the total volume, which may slightly exceed the initial calculation due to the addition of the stock solution, the nurse must label the IV bag to accurately reflect the volume of potassium in the solution. This step is essential for safety and to prevent errors during administration. Nurses must remember that the proper dilution and administration of IV KCl are vital, as incorrect dosages can be lethal—potassium infusions are used in capital punishment and euthanasia due to their effects on disrupting cardiac function when excessively high.
The planned intervention also calls for the nurse to ensure that the potassium medication is appropriately diluted in the IV bag to the exact concentration ordered by the physician. Correct labeling and preparation help maintain patient safety and the efficacy of the treatment, facilitating the recovery from hypokalemia.