Question

The physician orders potassium chloride 20 m Eq IV x1. The pharmacy prepares 20 m Eq Potassium in 50 mL normal saline. at what rate will the nurse infuse the potassium to meet the standard of care for potassium administration

Answer 1

. Always dilute KCL never give a bolus or iv push,

. Always use an infusion pump.

. Administer at a rate of no more than 10 mEq per hour peripherally, administer at a rate of 20 mEq per hour via central line.

. Follow guidelines for recommended maximum concentration of kcl;

60 mEq/L -maintenance fluid

20 mEq /100 ml or 40 mEq/250 ml- peripheral line

40 mEq/100 ml - central line

20 -40 mEq /24 hour as a usual dose , should not exceed 200mEq / 24 hours