A nurse is preparing to infuse a 250-mL unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs) over 2 hours.

The drop factor of the manual intravenous (IV) tubing is 15 drops/mL. How many drops per minute should the nurse adjust the flow rate to deliver?

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

A stoma may appear red and moist immediately after surgery, similar to the inside of the mouth. A purplish color could indicate a lack of blood supply to the stoma, which is a medical emergency.

Choice B rationale

A small amount of bleeding around the stoma is normal, especially when cleaning the area or changing the ostomy appliance. This is because the stoma contains blood vessels and has a rich blood supply.

Choice C rationale

Fecal output from a colostomy can be expected within 2 to 4 days after surgery. It is not typical to see output within 24 hours.

Choice D rationale

An increase in the intake of raw vegetables is not necessary after a colostomy. In fact, some people may find certain raw vegetables difficult to digest and they may cause gas or odor.