What action should the nurse take for a client with a head injury whose IV is infusing at 125 ml/hr?

In the context of managing a client with a head injury, it is crucial to monitor and control intracranial pressure (ICP). An IV infusion rate that is too high can contribute to increased fluid volume in the body, which may lead to cerebral edema and exacerbate ICP.

Slowing the IV rate to 50 mL/hr serves to reduce fluid intake and minimizes the risk of complications associated with fluid overload. This is especially significant in patients with head injuries, as cerebral edema can worsen outcomes and impact recovery.

Maintaining a careful fluid balance is essential in these cases to ensure that intracranial pressure remains at a safe level, supporting brain function and overall health stability. Reducing the rate can help prevent any potential increases in ICP due to excess fluid administration.