Author Question: A patient who has been receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for several days accidently ... (Read 71 times)

CORALGRILL2014 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient who has been receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for several days accidently removes the intravenous (IV) line. While waiting for the IV therapy nurse, the nurse caring for this patient will monitor for which complication?

a. Air embolism
b. Dehydration
c. Hypoglycemia
d. Infection

Question 2

The nurse is preparing to discontinue total parenteral nutrition (TPN) therapy for a patient who has been receiving TPN for several days. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss an order for

a. antibiotics.
b. intravenous insulin.
c. isotonic dextrose.
d. nasogastric feedings.

jordangronback · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Sudden interruption of TPN therapy can lead to hypoglycemia because of the sudden drop in glucose and the patient's continued increased insulin levels. Air embolism is a complication associated with changing TPN bags. Dehydration is not a complication of a sudden interruption of TPN. Infection is an ongoing concern, but the risk does not increase with a sudden interruption of TPN.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Abruptly discontinuing TPN can lead to hypoglycemia. Patients should receive an isotonic dextrose solution for 12 to 24 hours after TPN is discontinued to prevent this reaction. Antibiotics are used when signs of infection are observed. Intravenous insulin would compound hypoglycemia. Nasogastric feedings are indicated if the patient needs continued feeding therapy and has an intact GI tract.