A nurse is planning care for a client who is receiving enteral feedings through a nasogastric (NG) tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Choice A: Fever and chills Fever and chills are not typically associated with the abrupt cessation of TPN. These symptoms are more commonly related to infections or inflammatory processes in the body. While infections can be a complication of TPN due to the invasive nature of the therapy, they are not a direct result of the discontinuation of the infusion. Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. Fluids are given into a vein to provide most of the nutrients the body needs. The sudden stop in the infusion of TPN can lead to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycemia, because the body has become accustomed to the continuous influx of glucose from the TPN solution.

Choice B: Hypertension and crackles Hypertension (high blood pressure) and crackles (sounds heard on lung auscultation indicative of fluid in the air spaces) are not expected clinical manifestations due to the stopping of TPN. These symptoms are more commonly associated with cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, respectively.

Choice C: Excessive thirst and urination Excessive thirst and urination could be symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which might occur if TPN is infused too quickly or if the patient has an increased insulin requirement. However, these are not the immediate concerns when TPN is abruptly stopped.

Choice D: Shakiness and diaphoresis Shakiness and diaphoresis (sweating) are common signs of hypoglycemia, which can occur if TPN is stopped suddenly. The body may have been receiving a steady supply of glucose from the TPN, and a sudden halt can cause blood sugar levels to drop quickly. This can lead to symptoms such as weakness, shakiness, sweating, and even confusion or loss of consciousness if not addressed promptly. When TPN is abruptly discontinued, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of hypoglycemia, including shakiness and diaphoresis. It is important to restart the TPN infusion as soon as possible or provide an alternative source of glucose to prevent hypoglycemia and its potential complications.

Choice A. An embolic stroke is caused by an embolus, often a blood clot, that travels to the brain from another part of the body. It does not typically present with a sudden, severe headache.

Choice B. A thrombotic stroke occurs when a blood clot forms inside one of the brain's arteries. While it can cause a headache, it is not usually characterized by a sudden, severe headache.

Choice C. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is often called a mini-stroke and symptoms are temporary. A sudden, severe headache is more indicative of a hemorrhagic stroke.

Choice D. A hemorrhagic stroke, which involves bleeding within the brain, is most likely to cause a sudden, severe headache, and can lead to seizures and changes in consciousness.