The nurse is reviewing orders for parenteral potassium. Which order is

The nurse is reviewing orders for parenteral potassium. Which order is safe for the nurse to implement?

1. Add 20 mEq of KCL to 1,000 mL of IV fluid
2. 10 mEq KCL IV over 1–2 minutes
3. Dilute 20 mEq KCL in 3 mL of NS and give IV push
4. 10 mEq KCL SQ

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Parenteral potassium should be well diluted and given IV.
Rationale 2: If given in concentrated form, parenteral potassium is lethal to the client.
Rationale 3: Parenteral potassium should be well diluted and given IV. It is not given SQ, by IV push, or in limited dilution (such as 20 mEq in 25 mL of fluid).
Rationale 4: Parenteral potassium should be well diluted and given IV. It is not given SQ, by IV push, or in limited dilution (such as 20 mEq in 25 mL of fluid).