A nurse is assessing a patient who has had diarrhea for several days. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale

Excessive thirst and urination are symptoms of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia could occur if the TPN solution was infusing too quickly, but it would not be a result of the infusion pump not working.

Choice B rationale

Shakiness and diaphoresis are manifestations of hypoglycemia. When a sudden interruption in the infusion of TPN occurs, the patient is at risk for hypoglycemia.

Choice C rationale

Fever and chills are symptoms of infection, not a direct result of the TPN infusion stopping.

Choice D rationale

Hypertension and crackles in the lungs are signs of fluid overload, not hypoglycemia. These symptoms would not be expected if the TPN infusion stopped.

Choice A rationale

Dehydration is a common finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days. Symptoms of dehydration can include dark-colored urine, excessive thirst, fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness.

Choice B rationale

Diarrhea does not typically cause decreased bowel sounds.

Choice C rationale

A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.

Choice D rationale

Hypothermia is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.