A client who is at full-term gestation is in active labor and complains of a cramp in her leg.

Which intervention should the practical nurse (PN) implement?

The correct answer is Choice A:

Collect fingerstick glucose levels.

Choice A rationale:

When a client is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), it means they are receiving nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. TPN often contains high levels of glucose, which can lead to hyperglycemia. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels are crucial to detect and manage hyperglycemia effectively, especially in clients at risk for diabetes or those with impaired glucose metabolism.

Choice B rationale:

Implementing bleeding precautions (Choice B) is important for clients on anticoagulant therapy or with bleeding disorders. However, it is not the most important intervention for a client receiving TPN. Monitoring glucose levels takes precedence in this case.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining daily weights is an important intervention to assess fluid balance and nutritional status in clients receiving TPN. However, it is not the most critical intervention compared to monitoring glucose levels to prevent complications of hyperglycemia.

Choice D rationale:

Checking urine for albumin is important in assessing kidney function and detecting proteinuria. While it is a valid nursing intervention, it is not the most important consideration for a client on TPN. Monitoring glucose levels is of higher priority.

The correct answer is Choice C. Place the ID bands on the infant and mother.

Choice A rationale:

While obtaining the infant's vital signs is important, it is not the priority action before transporting the baby to the nursery. Placing ID bands on the infant and mother ensures proper identification and prevents mix-ups during transportation, which is crucial in the nursery setting.

Choice B rationale:

Administering vitamin K injection is also essential but not the immediate priority before transporting the baby. Vitamin K administration helps prevent bleeding disorders in newborns, but ensuring proper identification and security come first.

Choice C rationale:

The correct choice. Placing ID bands on the infant and mother is the most important action before transporting the baby to the nursery. This step ensures accurate identification and matching between the baby and the mother, preventing any confusion or errors in the hospital setting.

Choice D rationale:

Observing the infant latching onto the breast is important for promoting breastfeeding, but it can be done after ensuring proper identification and safety measures have been taken.