A nurse on a medical surgical unit is caring for a client who has a small bowel obstruction and is receiving parenteral nutrition through a central venous catheter. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take? (Select all that apply)
Observe for dyspnea.
Infuse parenteral nutrition by gravity.
Administer parenteral nutrition solution within 30 min after removing from the refrigerator.
Change parenteral nutrition bag and infusion tubing every 72 hr.
Begin infusion of parenteral nutrition once central venous catheter position is confirmed by radiology.
Correct Answer : A,C,E
Choice A reason: Dyspnea is a sign of pulmonary edema, which can occur as a complication of parenteral nutrition due to fluid overload or allergic reaction¹². The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory status and oxygen saturation and report any signs of respiratory distress.
Choice B reason: Parenteral nutrition should not be infused by gravity, as this can cause fluctuations in the infusion rate and lead to hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia¹³. The nurse should use an infusion pump to deliver parenteral nutrition at a constant and controlled rate.
Choice C reason: Parenteral nutrition solution should be administered within 30 min after removing from the refrigerator, as prolonged exposure to room temperature can increase the risk of bacterial contamination and infection¹⁴. The nurse should check the expiration date and inspect the solution for any discoloration, cloudiness, or particulate matter before administration.
Choice D reason: Parenteral nutrition bag and infusion tubing should be changed every 24 hr, not every 72 hr, to prevent the growth of microorganisms and reduce the risk of infection¹⁵. The nurse should use aseptic technique when changing the bag and tubing and follow the facility's protocol for dressing changes and catheter care.
Choice E reason: Parenteral nutrition should be started only after the central venous catheter position is confirmed by radiology, as incorrect placement can cause serious complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or cardiac tamponade¹⁶. The nurse should obtain a chest x-ray and wait for the provider's confirmation before initiating parenteral nutrition.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Warming the formula to room temperature can help reduce the osmotic load and prevent diarrhea in clients receiving enteral nutrition. Cold formula can also cause abdominal cramping and discomfort.
Choice B reason: Increasing the rate of infusion can worsen diarrhea by increasing the osmotic load and the risk of bacterial overgrowth. The rate of infusion should be adjusted based on the client's tolerance and nutritional needs.
Choice C reason: Changing to a low-calorie formula is not indicated for diarrhea. Low-calorie formulas are usually high in osmolality and can cause more water to be drawn into the intestinal lumen, leading to diarrhea. A low-residue or isotonic formula may be more appropriate.
Choice D reason: Replacing the extension tubing every 48 hr is not enough to prevent diarrhea. The extension tubing should be replaced every 24 hr or with each new container of formula to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Abdominal distention is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate gas accumulation, constipation, or intolerance to the formula. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by adjusting the formula, rate, or volume of the feeding, or by administering medications or enemas.
Choice B reason: Fluid overload is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate excessive fluid intake, renal impairment, or heart failure. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by monitoring the fluid balance, electrolytes, and vital signs, or by administering diuretics or fluid restriction.
Choice C reason: Glycosuria is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate hyperglycemia, diabetes, or infection. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by monitoring the blood glucose, urine output, and signs of infection, or by administering insulin or antibiotics.
Choice D reason: Tube obstruction is the greatest risk to the client, as it may indicate clogging, kinking, or twisting of the tube, which can impair the delivery of the nutrition and medication, and cause aspiration, infection, or perforation. Tube obstruction can be prevented by flushing the tube with water before and after each feeding or medication, and by using a syringe or a pump to administer the formula. Tube obstruction can be managed by using warm water, carbonated beverages, or pancreatic enzymes to unclog the tube, or by replacing the tube if necessary.
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