A nurse is preparing to administer 0.9% sodium chloride IV infusion 1-L bag at a rate of 200 ml/hr for a client who has rhabdomyolysis. The nurse should expect the IV pump to infuse over how many hours? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Answer:
The IV pump will infuse over 5 hours.
Explanation:
To determine how long it will take for the IV pump to infuse the 1-L (1000 mL) bag of 0.9% sodium chloride at a rate of 200 mL/hr, we can use the formula:
[
\text{Time (hours)} = \frac{\text{Total Volume (mL)}}{\text{Rate (mL/hr)}}
]
- Identify the values:
- Total volume = 1-L = 1000 mL
- Rate = 200 mL/hr
- Perform the calculation:
[
\text{Time} = \frac{1000 \, \text{mL}}{200 \, \text{mL/hr}} = 5 \, \text{hours}
] - Rounding:
Since the calculated time (5.0 hours) is already a whole number, no further rounding is needed. - Confirm units:
The rate and volume are in compatible units (mL and mL/hr), so the answer is accurate.
Why Is This Important for Rhabdomyolysis?
- Condition Overview: Rhabdomyolysis involves the breakdown of muscle tissue, leading to the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream. Myoglobin can damage the kidneys, potentially causing acute kidney injury.
- Treatment Role: Aggressive IV fluid administration is critical to dilute the myoglobin and support kidney function by promoting urine production.
- Safety Considerations:
- Administering fluids too quickly can risk fluid overload, especially in clients with compromised heart or kidney function.
- Conversely, underhydration may not adequately protect the kidneys.
By calculating the infusion time correctly, the nurse ensures the client receives the prescribed therapy safely and effectively.