5 Electrolyte Safety Free Online FlashCards

Which electrolytes and saline solutions are identified as high-alert medications?

Potassium chloride concentrate, magnesium sulfate, potassium phosphates, and hypertonic sodium chloride are identified as high-alert medications.

What should you do with an order for potassium chloride by IV push?

Do not administer it. Hold the medication and promptly clarify the order with the prescriber and pharmacist.

How must potassium chloride concentrate be administered?

It must be diluted and administered by controlled IV infusion; never give it undiluted or by IV push.

What details must be confirmed before giving a clarified potassium order?

Verify the intended dose, dilution, route, and infusion rate before proceeding.

What pump rate delivers 100 mL over 2 hours?

The rate is $100\text{ mL} \div 2\text{ h} = 50\text{ mL/h}$.

What is the concentration of 20 mEq in 100 mL?

The concentration is $20\text{ mEq} \div 0.1\text{ L} = 200\text{ mEq/L}$.

What must be checked before a potassium infusion through a peripheral IV?

Check that the prescribed concentration and peripheral route comply with facility policy and product-specific instructions. Pause and clarify if they do not or the policy is unclear.

Can 3% sodium chloride share an administration set with blood components?

No. Do not administer 3% sodium chloride through the same set as whole blood or cellular blood components; arrange separate administration according to facility policy.

What should be monitored during 3% sodium chloride administration?

Monitor fluid status and ordered electrolyte results. Rapid changes in serum sodium can be dangerous.

What concentration limit applies to IV magnesium sulfate infusion solutions?

Prepare it at the ordered, approved dilution. IV infusion solutions must be diluted to a concentration of 20% or less.

Why is renal function important when giving magnesium sulfate?

Check renal function and ordered magnesium monitoring, and assess for toxicity under the relevant protocol. Impaired renal excretion increases the risk of accumulation.

What should you do when Y-site compatibility is uncertain?

Check compatibility in an approved, current injectable-drug reference or confirm it with a pharmacist before connecting the medications.