Answer: Today's NCLEX Question of the Day
The answer is B) Give it diluted in IV fluid on an infusion pump, no faster than 10 mEq per hour.
IV potassium is a high-alert medication. Given too fast, it can cause dangerous heart rhythms and cardiac arrest. It must always be diluted and run on an infusion pump at a controlled rate; a common safe limit through a peripheral line is about 10 mEq per hour (always follow your facility's protocol). Peripheral potassium can also burn, so watch the IV site for pain and phlebitis.
Why not the others: A and C, IV push or a rapid bolus, are never done with potassium and can be fatal. D, IM potassium, is not a route used for KCl.
NCLEX tip: "Never push, never IM, always pump." Also check urine output before giving potassium, since the kidneys must be working to clear it.
How did you do? Tell us below.
Did you get it right? What other high-alert meds do you always double-check?
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