Use Case Study to answer the following questions. Exhibits Which nursing intervention is most appropriate when administering IV potassium chloride?

Rationale: A. Mix with a dextrose solution only: Potassium can be mixed in various compatible solutions (such as 0.9% NS or D5½NS). There is no requirement that potassium chloride must be mixed only with dextrose-containing fluids. B. Administer as a rapid IV push: This is dangerous and contraindicated. IV potassium must never be given as a rapid IV push or bolus, as it can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias. It must be diluted and administered slowly. C. Monitor for signs of hypernatremia: While electrolyte monitoring is important, hypernatremia is not the main concern when administering potassium. The nurse should focus on monitoring potassium levels and cardiac status. D. Ensure the infusion is diluted and given via an IV pump: IV potassium chloride must always be diluted in an appropriate IV fluid and administered via an infusion pump to control the rate and avoid complications such as arrhythmias and vein irritation. Also, the infusion rate should typically not exceed 10 mEq/hr through a peripheral vein.