A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a patient receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The glucose is 72 mg/dL, chloride is 100 mEq/L, sodium is 138 mEq/L, and potassium is 3.0 mEq/L. What action should the nurse plan to take?
Administer glucagon IM.
Discontinue the TPN infusion.
Request a potassium replacement.
Check the patient for a positive Chvostek’s sign.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Step 1 is to interpret the laboratory values. The glucose level is within the normal range (7099 mg/dL). The chloride level is within the normal range (97-107 mEq/L). The sodium level is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L). However, the potassium level is low (normal range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L)89101112.
Step 2 is to plan the action based on the interpretation. Given the low potassium level, the nurse should plan to request a potassium replacement
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Aspiration is not a common complication of TPN. TPN is administered intravenously, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the risk of aspiration. Choice B rationale
Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not typically a direct complication of TPN. However, the fluid balance of patients on TPN should be monitored, as both overhydration and dehydration can lead to urinary changes.
Choice C rationale
Stomatitis, or inflammation of the mouth and lips, is not a common complication of TPN. Since TPN bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, it does not typically cause oral complications.
Choice D rationale
Abdominal distention can occur as a complication of TPN. This is because TPN can cause an imbalance in the gut flora, leading to gas production and bloating. Additionally, if a patient on TPN has an underlying condition that affects gut motility, they may experience abdominal distention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing clean linen that touched the floor in the soiled linen bag is a correct practice. This is because the floor is considered dirty, and any linen that comes into contact with it should be considered contaminated.
Choice B rationale
Shaking soiled linen to remove any toilet paper remnants is not a correct practice. Shaking soiled linen can disperse pathogens into the air, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
Choice C rationale
Placing the soiled linen on the floor before bagging it is not a correct practice. Soiled linen should be handled as little as possible and placed directly into a designated, leak-proof container.
Choice D rationale
Holding the soiled linen against her body while carrying it to the linen bag is not a correct practice. Soiled linen should be handled carefully to avoid contact with the body, as this can lead to contamination of the worker’s clothing and potentially spread infection.
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