A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a patient receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The glucose is 72 mg/dL, chloride is 100 mEq/L, sodium is 138 mEq/L, and potassium is 3.0 mEq/L. What action should the nurse plan to take?
Administer glucagon IM.
Discontinue the TPN infusion.
Request a potassium replacement.
Check the patient for a positive Chvostek’s sign.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Step 1 is to interpret the laboratory values. The glucose level is within the normal range (7099 mg/dL). The chloride level is within the normal range (97-107 mEq/L). The sodium level is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L). However, the potassium level is low (normal range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L)89101112.
Step 2 is to plan the action based on the interpretation. Given the low potassium level, the nurse should plan to request a potassium replacement
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Skin pallor and cool-to-touch skin are common signs of severe dehydration. When the body is severely dehydrated, blood flow to the skin decreases, causing the skin to feel cool and look pale.
Choice B rationale
Pitting edema is not a clinical finding of severe dehydration. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Pitting edema is a condition that causes swelling due to fluid accumulation, often due to conditions like heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease.
Choice C rationale
Tachycardia with a thready pulse is a common sign of severe dehydration. The heart rate increases in an attempt to maintain blood flow to the organs, and the pulse may feel weak or thready due to low blood volume.
Choice D rationale
Lung sounds diminished with crackles upon auscultation is not typically associated with dehydration. This is more commonly seen in conditions affecting the lungs such as pneumonia or heart failure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Aspiration is not a common complication of TPN. TPN is administered intravenously, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the risk of aspiration. Choice B rationale
Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not typically a direct complication of TPN. However, the fluid balance of patients on TPN should be monitored, as both overhydration and dehydration can lead to urinary changes.
Choice C rationale
Stomatitis, or inflammation of the mouth and lips, is not a common complication of TPN. Since TPN bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, it does not typically cause oral complications.
Choice D rationale
Abdominal distention can occur as a complication of TPN. This is because TPN can cause an imbalance in the gut flora, leading to gas production and bloating. Additionally, if a patient on TPN has an underlying condition that affects gut motility, they may experience abdominal distention.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today