A nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse who is administering total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to a client. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse indicates a need for the nurse to intervene?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Uses the TPN IV tubing to administer the client's next dose of antibiotics: TPN lines should never be used for administering other medications or fluids because this increases the risk of contamination, infection, and incompatibility reactions. TPN requires dedicated IV access to maintain sterility and prevent complications such as sepsis. B. Plans for a check of the client's fingerstick glucose level every 6 hr: Monitoring blood glucose regularly is essential during TPN administration because high dextrose concentrations can cause hyperglycemia. Checking every 4–6 hours aligns with safe monitoring practices and does not require intervention. C. Gradually increases the TPN infusion rate each hour until the prescribed rate is achieved: Slowly titrating the TPN rate helps the client adjust to the high glucose content and reduces the risk of hyperglycemia or fluid overload. This demonstrates safe and appropriate administration practice. D. Schedules a bag and tubing change for 24 hr after the start of the infusion: Changing the TPN solution and tubing every 24 hours is consistent with infection control guidelines. This action maintains sterility and prevents microbial growth, reflecting proper technique.