A patient's 2:

Question

1 parenteral nutrition container infuses before the pharmacy prepares the next container. This places the patient at risk for which complication?
a. Sepsis
b. Pneumothorax
c. Hypoglycemia
d. Thrombophlebitis

Answer 1

C
Because of the high glucose content of 2:1 parenteral nutrition, any interruption in therapy places the patient at risk for hypoglycemia. A PN of this type should not be discontinued abruptly, but rather over several (as many as 48) hours to prevent a sudden drop in blood sugar. Hypoglycemia is unlikely to occur with a 3:1 solution (containing lipids), as the final concentration of glucose is less than 10%. Sepsis is a complication that can occur if a break in aseptic technique occurs during therapy. Pneumothorax can occur as a result of central venous catheter insertion. Central venous catheters are typically employed for parenteral nutrition. Thrombophlebitis is a complication of central venous catheter use.