Your patient was admitted with severe dehydration. Which of the following orders would you question?

In a situation involving a patient with severe dehydration, administering potassium chloride (KCl) as an intravenous push, particularly in a high dose like 40 mEq, raises significant safety concerns. KCl is a critical electrolyte that needs to be administered carefully due to its potential to cause serious complications, such as cardiac arrest, if infused too quickly. The safe administration of KCl typically involves dilution in a larger volume of fluid and administering it slowly over time, rather than as a bolus push. This is to ensure proper monitoring of the patient's potassium levels and to avoid rapid changes in serum potassium. Therefore, questioning the order for KCl IV push STAT is appropriate given the patient's condition and the inherent risks associated with rapid administration of potassium.

On the other hand, administering normal saline and Lactated Ringer's in the quantities and rates specified is quite common in the management of dehydration, as both solutions are effective in replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes in a controlled manner. Additionally, recommending 2 liters of oral fluids as a treatment option is acceptable, provided the patient can tolerate oral intake. This approach supports rehydration while monitoring the patient's overall condition.