A Patient Who Is Receiving D5/0

Multiple Choice

A patient who is receiving D5/0.45% normal saline at 100 mL/hr has a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L.A nurse notifies the requesting health-care provider and receives a telephone order to "administer potassium chloride (KCl) 40 mEq IV now." Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

A) Add KCl to the primary infusion and administer at the rate of 100 mL/hr.
B) Clarify the desired route and rate of administration with the requesting health-care provider.
C) Prepare KCl and administer IV push by accessing the port closest to the vein.
D) Mix the KCl in piggyback of 50 mL normal saline and infuse over 15 minutes.