A nurse is preparing to discontinue long-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN) therapy for a client. The nurse should plan to discontinue the TPN gradually to reduce the risk of which of the following adverse effects?

A. Constipation: This is not typically a concern when discontinuing TPN. The primary issues relate to metabolic changes rather than gastrointestinal motility. B. Hypoglycemia: Gradual discontinuation of TPN is necessary to prevent hypoglycemia. Sudden cessation of TPN can cause a rapid drop in blood glucose because the body has been receiving a continuous source of intravenous glucose. Tapering allows endogenous insulin and glucose regulation to adjust. C. Diarrhea: This is not a common risk associated with stopping TPN. Fluid and electrolyte shifts can occur, but gastrointestinal upset is not the primary concern during discontinuation. D. Hyperglycemia: This is more likely during TPN administration or if TPN is infused too rapidly. Gradually tapering TPN prevents hypoglycemia rather than hyperglycemia, which is the main metabolic risk when stopping therapy abruptly.