The nurse is preparing to hang the client's next bag of Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) and observes fat globules rising to the top of the solution. What action should the nurse take?
Run the bag under warm water to melt the globules.
Call the pharmacy to get a new bag of TPN.
Do nothing, as fat globules are expected to rise to the top of the TPN solution.
Roll the bag of solution gently to redistribute the fat.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason
Running the bag under warm water to melt the globules is not recommended. Applying heat could compromise the sterility and integrity of the solution. TPN solutions are carefully balanced and sterile, and any manipulation involving temperature changes could lead to contamination or nutrient degradation.
Choice B Reason
Observing fat globules at the top of the TPN solution is a sign that the emulsion may be compromised. The nurse should not administer this TPN solution and should call the pharmacy for a replacement. TPN solutions should be homogenous with no visible separation or fat globules to ensure the patient receives the correct nutrition and to prevent complications.
Choice C Reason
Doing nothing is not an appropriate action. Fat globules indicate that the solution has separated, which can lead to an unstable emulsion and potential harm if infused. The nurse's responsibility is to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment, which includes verifying that TPN solutions are properly mixed.
Choice D Reason
Rolling the bag gently to redistribute the fat is not a safe practice. While gentle agitation can be used for some medications, it is not appropriate for TPN solutions with visible fat globules. This could further destabilize the emulsion and does not address the underlying issue of separation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Decreasing intake of vitamin K-rich foods is not recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin K is essential for bone health because it helps in the synthesis of proteins required for bone formation and mineralization. A deficiency in vitamin K can lead to weakened bone structure and increased risk of fractures. Foods rich in vitamin K include green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, which should be a part of a balanced diet aimed at preventing osteoporosis.
Choice b reason:
Reducing sodium intake can be beneficial for bone health. Excessive sodium consumption can cause calcium loss through urine, which may contribute to bone demineralization and increase the risk of osteoporosis. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults.
Choice c reason:
Avoiding carbonated soda, especially those containing phosphoric acid, is advisable for osteoporosis prevention. Some studies suggest that phosphoric acid in soda can leach calcium from bones and decrease calcium absorption, potentially weakening bones and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Choice d reason:
Limiting caffeinated beverages is a prudent step in preventing osteoporosis. Caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to its increased excretion in urine. It is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake to about 400 mg per day, equivalent to around four 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
A cream to soothe itching may be used if the client is experiencing pruritus, which can sometimes accompany biliary issues due to bile salts in the skin. However, pruritus is not a direct symptom of biliary colic, which is characterized primarily by pain.
Choice b reason:
Pain medication is the appropriate treatment for biliary colic. Biliary colic is caused by the temporary blockage of the bile duct by a gallstone, leading to intense pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen. Pain relief is typically achieved with anti-inflammatory drugs or antispasmodics, and in some cases, opioids may be necessary.
Choice c reason:
An antibiotic would be prescribed if there was an infection, such as cholecystitis or cholangitis. Biliary colic itself does not necessarily indicate an infection unless accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or elevated white blood cell count.
Choice d reason:
A laxative is not typically used to treat biliary colic. While laxatives can help relieve constipation, biliary colic is a result of gallstones obstructing the bile duct, not bowel movement issues.

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