Which finding should the practical nurse (PN) instruct the postpartum client to report to the charge nurse?

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. Assign the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments.

Choice A rationale:

Asking unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to give medications to their assigned residents is not the best action to take in this situation. Medication administration requires a certain level of training and knowledge to ensure safe and accurate delivery. UAPs may not have the appropriate training and legal authorization to administer medications, which could lead to potential errors and harm to the residents.

Choice B rationale:

Documenting why all the medications were not given to each resident is not sufficient to address the issue at hand. While documentation is essential for record-keeping and communication, it does not resolve the problem of medication administration being left incomplete. The priority should be finding a qualified person to administer the remaining medications.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer because assigning the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments ensures that qualified and trained personnel are handling the medication administration. This PN is likely familiar with medication protocols and safety measures, reducing the risk of errors.

Choice D rationale:

Denying the medication aide's request to leave before all medications are given might not be practical if the aide is genuinely unwell or unable to continue working safely. The focus should be on ensuring that medication administration is completed by qualified staff rather than forcing the sick aide to stay.