The client will be going home on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) through a single-lumen peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line). The patient and his family will need education to perform which of the following care steps? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Monitoring intake and output is essential to assess fluid balance and detect complications such as dehydration or fluid overload. TPN can alter fluid status, and accurate measurement helps guide therapy. Choice B reason: TPN contains high concentrations of glucose, and patients are at risk for hyperglycemia. Regular monitoring of serum glucose is necessary to adjust insulin therapy and prevent complications. Choice C reason: Increasing the TPN rate to catch up is unsafe and can lead to hyperglycemia, fluid overload, and electrolyte imbalances. TPN should be administered at a prescribed rate, and any delays should be addressed by the healthcare provider. Choice D reason: Infection and infiltration are serious complications of PICC lines. Patients and caregivers must be taught to recognize signs such as redness, swelling, drainage, fever, or pain at the site to ensure prompt intervention. Choice E reason: Daily weight monitoring helps assess nutritional status and detect fluid retention or loss. It is a key indicator of the effectiveness of TPN therapy and overall patient health.