Which of the following is true regarding the administration of intravenous potassium?

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AIIMS NORCET 8 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2025

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Potassium is never administered through an infusion device.
IV potassium is always administered undiluted.
Potassium should be given by IV push for rapid correction.
IV potassium is always diluted (1 mEq/10 mL) and administered using an infusion device.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: IV potassium is always diluted (1 mEq/10 mL) and administered using an infusion device

Rationale:

Intravenous (IV) potassium is a high-alert medication and must be handled with extreme caution to avoid life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.
IV potassium should always be diluted in a compatible fluid (commonly normal saline) before administration. The standard dilution is 1 mEq of potassium chloride per 10 mL of diluent.
It must be administered using an infusion pump to ensure a controlled and accurate rate of delivery, which prevents rapid infusion and minimizes the risk of cardiac events.
Recommended infusion rate for peripheral lines is typically no more than 10 mEq/hour, and up to 20 mEq/hour via central lines in monitored settings.

Explanation of Other Options:

Potassium is never administered through an infusion device

Rationale: This statement is false. Infusion devices (pumps) are essential for administering IV potassium safely. They control the rate of administration, preventing inadvertent bolus delivery, which could lead to fatal arrhythmias.

IV potassium is always administered undiluted

Rationale: Administering undiluted potassium intravenously is dangerous and strictly contraindicated. It can cause phlebitis, pain at the infusion site, and severe cardiac complications, including arrest.

Potassium should be given by IV push for rapid correction

Rationale: IV push administration of potassium is never allowed due to the risk of immediate and potentially fatal cardiac effects. Correction of hypokalemia should be gradual, using diluted potassium via controlled infusion.

Conclusion:

IV potassium must be diluted to a safe concentration (1 mEq/10 mL) and administered through an infusion device to ensure patient saf