The client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) is prescribed the intravenous glucocorticoid hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef). The client has a saline lock. Which procedures should the nurse follow when...

The client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) is prescribed the intravenous glucocorticoid hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef). The client has a saline lock. Which procedures should the nurse follow when administering the medication? Rank in order of performance.

1. Administer the diluted medication intravenously over 1–2 minutes.

2. Aspirate the syringe to obtain a blood return.

3. Flush the saline lock with 2 mL of sterile normal saline.

4. Flush the saline lock again with 2 mL of normal saline.

5. Check the client’s identification bands against the MAR.