Question

A nurse is caring for a ct who is receiving TPN. The current bag of TPN is empty and a new bag is not available on the unit. Which of the following solution should the nurse infuse until a new bag of TPN is available?

a) 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline)
b) 5% Dextrose in Water (D5W)
c) Lactated Ringer's solution
d) 10% Dextrose in Water (D10W)

Answer 1

The correct solution to infuse for a patient receiving TPN when the current bag is empty and no new bag is available on the unit is 10% Dextrose in Water (D10W), as it helps prevent hypoglycemia and provides a temporary source of calories.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and the current bag is empty with no new bag available, the nurse should infuse a solution that can temporarily act as a bridge until the TPN is available. In such cases, the recommended solution to infuse is typically 10% Dextrose in Water (D10W). This is because the dextrose concentration is closer to the caloric density of TPN, helping to prevent sudden drops in blood sugar levels and providing a source of calories. Hence, the correct answer is d) 10% Dextrose in Water (D10W).

A challenge arises when a patient suddenly stops receiving TPN, as it can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). D10W provides a source of glucose that will help maintain blood sugar levels until TPN can be resumed. Solutions like 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline) or Lactated Ringer's solution are typically used for rehydration and electrolyte balance but do not provide the necessary caloric content that TPN does.