A patient is receiving intravenous (IV) potassium supplements. What is the most important nursing implication when administering this drug?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: IV potassium must always be diluted in IV fluids and administered via an infusion pump to prevent rapid infusion, which can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Administering undiluted potassium or too quickly can lead to hyperkalemia and cardiac arrest. While central lines (A) are sometimes used, potassium can also be given through a peripheral IV if properly diluted. Chilling potassium (C) is unnecessary and could cause discomfort. Preservatives (D) are not a primary concern with IV potassium administration.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Aspirin, an acidic drug, ionizes in the small intestine's alkaline pH, reducing absorption as ionized forms cross membranes less easily than non-ionized. Absorption increases in the stomach's acid pH. Ionization directly affects rate. It absorbs mainly in the stomach and intestine, not beyond. Decreased absorption reflects pH impact, a pharmacokinetic rule.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Mannitol, an osmotic diuretic, reduces cerebral edema by drawing fluid into the vasculature, excreted via urine. Monitoring urine output ensures efficacy and prevents fluid overload or renal strain, critical in brain injury. BP and pupils matter but follow diuresis. Temperature is unrelated. Urine output aligns with mannitol's action, key in cerebral edema where ICP reduction hinges on fluid shift, making A the priority parameter.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Furosemide belongs to the sulfonamide drug class. Physicians commonly prescribe furosemide for its diuretic effects in conditions like heart failure, hypertension, and edema. It is crucial for the nurse to assess the patient for allergies to sulfonamides before administering furosemide due to the potential for cross-reactivity between these drugs. Allergies to sulfonamides can lead to severe reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. By identifying any potential allergies, the nurse can prevent adverse reactions and ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Labor pain relief without epidural favors Butorphanol , a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist. It provides analgesia with less respiratory depression risk to the fetus than Codeine , Methadone , or Morphine (E). Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. Butorphanol's safety profile suits late labor, minimizing neonatal impact.