A nurse is caring for a client who has hepatic encephalopathy. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor?

Rationale:

A. Encourage the client to elevate their legs while in bed: Elevating the affected leg helps reduce venous pressure, decreasing edema and discomfort associated with DVT. Elevation also promotes venous return, which can limit further clot propagation. This intervention provides symptom relief without increasing the risk of embolization.

B. Place an immobilizer on the affected leg: Immobilizers restrict movement and are used for musculoskeletal injuries, not for DVT management. Immobilization can worsen venous stasis by reducing circulation in the lower extremity. Instead, clients with DVT benefit from gentle mobility once anticoagulation is initiated, unless contraindicated, to prevent worsening clot burden.

C. Implement bleeding precautions: The client has diagnostic confirmation of DVT and will require anticoagulation, which increases bleeding risk. Bleeding precautions help prevent complications such as hematuria, bruising, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Monitoring for signs of bleeding and avoiding trauma are essential once therapy begins.

D. Apply intermittent pneumatic compression devices to the unaffected leg: IPC devices should not be applied to the affected limb due to the risk of dislodging the thrombus. However, using them on the unaffected leg promotes venous return and helps prevent additional clot formation.

E. Instruct the client to expect dark stools: Dark stools can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which is not an expected effect of DVT treatment. While anticoagulants can increase bleeding risk, the nurse should teach the client to report black or tarry stools immediately.

Rationale:

A. Uses the TPN IV tubing to administer the client's next dose of antibiotics: TPN lines should never be used for administering other medications or fluids because this increases the risk of contamination, infection, and incompatibility reactions. TPN requires dedicated IV access to maintain sterility and prevent complications such as sepsis.

B. Plans for a check of the client's fingerstick glucose level every 6 hr: Monitoring blood glucose regularly is essential during TPN administration because high dextrose concentrations can cause hyperglycemia. Checking every 4–6 hours aligns with safe monitoring practices and does not require intervention.

C. Gradually increases the TPN infusion rate each hour until the prescribed rate is achieved: Slowly titrating the TPN rate helps the client adjust to the high glucose content and reduces the risk of hyperglycemia or fluid overload. This demonstrates safe and appropriate administration practice.

D. Schedules a bag and tubing change for 24 hr after the start of the infusion: Changing the TPN solution and tubing every 24 hours is consistent with infection control guidelines. This action maintains sterility and prevents microbial growth, reflecting proper technique.