Potassium Administration

[PrairieRose]

When administering Potassium intravenously through a peripheral route, what would be the best choices for vein selection? The worst or contraindicated choices?

What type/size of device should be considered/avoided?

I'm interested in what might be the generally accepted standards/considerations but am asking because I'm looking at measures to lessen the risk of thrombophlebitis, so any other considerations would be helpful as well.

Much appreciation for your thoughtful consideration!

[tmhop]

Some things that could help to give the potassium as safely as possible:

-Use the smallest possible catheter in the largest possible vein.

-The more diluted the potassium is, the less irritation will occur. For example, if the potassium is mixed in 100mL of fluid, that would be more irritating than if it is mixed in 1000mL (1 liter) of fluid. (If the patient can tolerate a higher fluid volume.)

/Tess M. Hopkins

[iluvivt, BSN, RN]

...Agree with the above..

1. Use the smallest possible cannula in a large vein so you get good hemodilution of the potassium b/c the irritation to the vein is a Chemical one

2 Avoid areas of flexion for your site selection..any factor that also leads to vein irritation such as this should be considered...so reduce any mechanical irritation to the vein..along these lines make sure your site is secured well and the tubing is looped so the tension is on the tubing and not at the cannula

3 I also like to elevate the arm and sometimes apply a warm pack to increase circulation

4 If you have a CVC.......USE IT!!!

5 Once the site is BAD..do not push it..re-site it and allow that vein to heal