How do you administer potassium tablets?
For potassium gluconate and potassium citrate Adults and teenagers—20 milliequivalents (mEq) mixed into one-half glass of cold water or juice, taken two to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.
How is potassium chloride administered?
Forms and strengths, route of administration Potassium chloride must always be administered by slow IV infusion, diluted in 0.9% sodium chloride. – For dilution: The potassium concentration in the infusion fluid should not exceed 40 mmol/litre.
How do you administer intravenous potassium?
Administration should be via a volumetric infusion pump. The concentration of potassium for intravenous administration via a peripheral line should not exceed 40mmol/L, as higher strengths can cause phlebitis and pain. The infusion site should be checked regularly for redness and inflammation.
What is the nurse’s role in administration of potassium?
potassium administration is necessary to prevent toxic effects from hyperkalemia. Evaluate his response to treatment by checking serum potassium levels and assessing him for signs and symptoms of toxicity, such as muscle weakness and paralysis.
What are the common routes of administration of potassium?
Potassium administration can be in the form of multiple salts, some of which can be ingested by the oral route (potassium chloride, acetate, bicarbonate, gluconate, and citrate), and some of which are given intravenously (potassium chloride and acetate).
How many mg are in 20 mEq of potassium?
The potassium chloride extended-release tablets, USP 20 mEq product is an immediately dispersing extended-release oral dosage form of potassium chloride containing 1500 mg of microencapsulated potassium chloride, USP equivalent to 20 mEq of potassium in a tablet.
How much does 20 mEq IV raise potassium?
Generally, 20 mEq/h of potassium chloride will increase serum potassium concentration by an average of 0.25 mEq/h, but this rate can be associated with ~2% incidence of mild hyperkalemia 23.
What do you need to know before administering potassium?
Before administration, the potassium infusion must be verified by two of the above providers to check child’s identification, weight, healthcare prescriber order, drug concentration, and rate of infusion.
What happens if potassium is given too fast?
Comment. The risks associated with intravenous potassium chloride are well known. If it is injected too rapidly or in too high a dose, it may cause cardiac arrest within minutes. The effect of hyperkalaemia on the heart is complex – virtually any arrhythmia may be observed.
Can you dissolve potassium pills?
The large 20meq tablets cannot be crushed, however they can be dissolved in water to make a “slurry.” The tablet dissolves and there are small beads that disperse in the water. Patients can then drink the liquid just making sure they swallow all the beads. Sometimes a little more water needs to be added to the glass.
Can you crush potassium 20 mEq?
To prevent stomach upset, take each dose with a meal and a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. Do not crush, chew, or suck extended-release capsules or tablets.
What is the fastest way to correct potassium?
- Give KCl 20 mEq orally every 2 hours for 2 doses OR KCl 40 mEq once, then recheck level.
- Typically continue Potassium Replacement at 20 meq twice daily for 2-3 days.
Can you dissolve potassium pills in water?
If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, you may break the tablet in half and take one half with a glass of water; then take the other half tablet with another glass of water. Another choice is to dissolve the tablet in a half glass of water (4 ounces/120 milliliters) before taking it.
Why do you have to wait to lay down after taking potassium?
Potassium chloride (Klor-Con) can be taken any time of day, but be sure to take it with food and plenty of fluids to minimize upset stomach. The recommendation is avoid taking it within 30 minutes of laying down, since the medication could end up siting in your stomach longer and causing irritation.