Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). a new bag is not available when the current infusion is nearly completed. which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Administer 0.9% sodium chloride until TPN is available from the pharmacy
B. Check the client's capillary blood glucose level every 4 hr
C. Obtain the client's weight each week
D. Change the IV tubing every 3 days

Answer 1

A. Administer 0.9% sodium chloride until TPN is available from the pharmacy

The nurse should administer 0.9% sodium chloride, or normal saline, until the next TPN bag is available to maintain the client's fluid and electrolyte balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse is caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and a new bag is not available when the current infusion is nearly completed, the nurse should administer 0.9% sodium chloride until TPN is available from the pharmacy. The 0.9% sodium chloride, also known as normal saline, is isotonic with respect to body fluids and serves as a temporary substitute to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance until the TPN can be resumed. It's essential to avoid interruption of the TPN to prevent hypoglycemia and provide continuous nutritional support. Normal saline can also support the venous access until the next TPN solution is ready.