A nurse is teaching a group of newly licensed nurses about the Braden scale. Which of the following responses by a newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Administer the PN and fat emulsion separately:

Administering the PN and fat emulsion separately is not a typical practice. Usually, PN formulations are prepared to include both macronutrients (carbohydrates and fat) in a single bag to provide a balanced nutritional profile. Administering them separately might lead to inconsistencies in the client's nutritional intake.

B. Prepare the client for a central venous line:

This is the correct action. Parenteral nutrition (PN) with a high concentration of dextrose (20%) and fat emulsions can be hypertonic and irritating to peripheral veins. Therefore, a central venous line is often recommended for the administration of such solutions. Preparing the client for a central venous line helps ensure the safe and effective delivery of PN.

C. Change the PN infusion bag every 48 hr:

The frequency of changing the PN infusion bag is not solely determined by time but rather by factors such as the stability of the solution, risk of contamination, and compatibility of the components. The specific recommendation for changing the PN bag should be based on institutional policies and the characteristics of the PN solution being used.

D. Obtain a random blood glucose daily:

While monitoring blood glucose is important in clients receiving PN, obtaining a random blood glucose daily is not specific enough for managing the potential hyperglycemic effects of a 20% dextrose solution. Continuous glucose monitoring or more frequent and scheduled blood glucose checks may be necessary.

Correct answer: B

A. Use a quick-release knot to secure the ties:

This is not the best practice. Quick-release knots are not recommended for securing tracheostomy ties because they can loosen more easily, increasing the risk of accidental decannulation (dislodging the tracheostomy tube). The ties should be securely fastened with a non-quick-release knot.

B. Cut the old ties after the new ties are secured:

This is the safest approach. It ensures the tracheostomy tube remains secure throughout the change.

C. Allow space for three fingers under the ties when securing:

Two fingers is the recommended space to allow for breathing comfort and prevent the tube from being too loose..

D. Extend the client's neck while securing the ties:

This is not the correct action. Hyperextending the client's neck during tracheostomy tie changes can cause discomfort and may compromise the integrity of the tracheostomy tube placement. The neck should be in a neutral position to maintain proper alignment.