A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent adverse effects?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Change the IV tubing every 24 hours: TPN solutions are rich in glucose and amino acids, creating an excellent medium for bacterial growth. Changing the IV tubing every 24 hours minimizes the risk of infection and sepsis associated with central line use. B. Monitor the client's weight weekly: Clients receiving TPN require close monitoring of fluid status and nutritional response. Weight should be checked daily, not weekly, to promptly identify fluid imbalances or overfeeding. C. Change the IV dressing every 96 hours: Central line dressings used for TPN should be changed every 48–72 hours (if gauze) or every 7 days (if transparent and intact), unless soiled or loose. Changing every 96 hours exceeds safe practice guidelines. D. Perform blood glucose monitoring hourly: Hourly glucose checks are unnecessary unless the client is critically ill or experiencing unstable blood glucose levels. Typically, glucose is monitored every 4–6 hours to detect hyperglycemia related to TPN.