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Multiple Choice

The primary healthcare provider has prescribed phenytoin 100 mg intravenous push (IVP) stat for an adult client. What is the least amount of time that the nurse can safely administer this medication?

Phenytoin must be infused slowly to avoid dangerous changes in blood pressure and heart rhythm. The safe maximum infusion rate for IV phenytoin is about 50 mg per minute. For a 100 mg dose, giving it at that rate requires at least 2 minutes. In practice, ensure administration through a normal saline line (not dextrose), preferably a dedicated IV site, and monitor the patient during the infusion.

Phenytoin must be infused slowly to avoid dangerous changes in blood pressure and heart rhythm. The safe maximum infusion rate for IV phenytoin is about 50 mg per minute. For a 100 mg dose, giving it at that rate requires at least 2 minutes. In practice, ensure administration through a normal saline line (not dextrose), preferably a dedicated IV site, and monitor the patient during the infusion.