A nurse prepares to replace the nearly empty container of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for a client when she finds that there has been a delay in receiving the new container of solution from the pharmacy. Which of the following solutions should the nurse infuse until the next container of TPN solution becomes available?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: 0.9% sodium chloride provides hydration but no glucose, risking hypoglycemia in TPN-dependent clients, as TPN contains high dextrose. Abrupt cessation of glucose can cause metabolic instability, making this choice inappropriate for temporary TPN replacement. Choice B reason: Lactated Ringer’s provides electrolytes and hydration but lacks sufficient glucose to prevent hypoglycemia in clients reliant on TPN’s high dextrose content. It does not match TPN’s nutritional profile, making this choice incorrect for interim infusion. Choice C reason: Dextrose 10% in water provides glucose to prevent hypoglycemia, mimicking TPN’s carbohydrate component. It maintains blood sugar stability in TPN-dependent clients until the new solution arrives, making this the correct choice for temporary infusion. Choice D reason: 3% sodium chloride is hypertonic and used for severe hyponatremia, not TPN replacement. It lacks glucose, risking hypoglycemia, and its high sodium content can cause fluid shifts, making this choice incorrect for this scenario.