Question

What action should the nurse take if there is a delay in delivering the next bag of TPN?

a) Administer the next bag at a slower rate
b) Discontinue TPN until the next bag arrives
c) Administer an oral diet instead
d) Consult with the pharmacist for alternatives

Answer 1

In case of a delay in the TPN delivery, the nurse should consult with the pharmacist for alternatives, such as administrating a standard dextrose solution at the same infusion rate to maintain glucose levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

If there is a delay in delivering the next bag of TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition), the nurse should not adjust the rate of the current infusion or discontinue TPN without a physician's order. Due to the precise balance of nutrients and the potential for hypoglycemia, if TPN is abruptly stopped, a nurse must take proper steps to ensure patient safety. The nurse should consult with the pharmacist for alternatives. Depending on the facility's protocols and the availability of pharmacy support, an alternative may be to administer a standard dextrose solution (e.g., D10W) at the same infusion rate as the TPN to maintain blood sugar levels until the TPN is available.