A charge nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about medication administration.
Which of the following information should the charge nurse include?

The correct answer is choice b. “I will hang a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours.”

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring the client’s blood glucose level every 8 hours is important, but it is not the best indicator of understanding the TPN procedure. Blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly, but the frequency can vary based on the client’s condition and physician’s orders.

Choice B rationale:

Hanging a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours is correct. This practice helps prevent infection and ensures the client receives the correct formulation of nutrients.

Choice C rationale:

Increasing the rate of the TPN infusion to ensure the correct amount is given is incorrect. The rate of TPN infusion should be strictly controlled and adjusted only by a physician’s order to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining the client’s weight every other day is important for monitoring nutritional status, but it does not directly indicate an understanding of the TPN procedure. Daily weights are often recommended to closely monitor the client’s response to TPN.

The correct answers are Choices A, C, D, E, F, and G.

Choice A rationale: Antihypertensive medication is indicated due to sustained elevated BP (≥160/110 mm Hg), which increases risk for stroke, placental abruption, and eclampsia. Prompt control reduces maternal and fetal morbidity.

Choice B rationale: Routine vaginal exams are contraindicated unless signs of labor are present. Frequent exams increase infection risk and are not part of standard care for hypertensive or preeclamptic clients.

Choice C rationale: A low-stimulation environment (dim lights, quiet room) reduces CNS irritability and seizure risk in preeclampsia. It supports neuroprotection and aligns with seizure precaution protocols.

Choice D rationale: Betamethasone promotes fetal lung maturity in preterm gestation when delivery is likely. It reduces neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and improves outcomes in hypertensive pregnancies.

Choice E rationale: A 24-hour urine specimen quantifies proteinuria, essential for diagnosing preeclampsia severity. Protein 3+ on dipstick warrants confirmation via timed collection for accurate staging.

Choice F rationale: Hourly intake and output monitoring detects fluid shifts, renal compromise, and early signs of pulmonary edema. It’s critical in hypertensive disorders to guide fluid management.

Choice G rationale: Bed rest minimizes physical stress, stabilizes BP, and reduces risk of placental disruption. Left lateral positioning enhances uteroplacental perfusion and supports fetal oxygenation.