Evolve HESI Practice Exam

What is crucial for the nurse to assess before administering TPN solution?

1. Client's weight

2. Client's allergy history

3. Client's blood glucose levels

4. Client's insurance coverage

The correct answer is: Client's blood glucose levels

Assessing the client’s blood glucose levels is crucial before administering total parenteral nutrition (TPN) because TPN solutions are rich in carbohydrates, primarily glucose. Administering TPN can lead to significant fluctuations in blood glucose levels, and regular monitoring is essential to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Ensuring that blood glucose levels are within a safe range allows the nurse to manage potential risks effectively. If glucose levels are too high, the nurse may need to consider adjusting the TPN solution or implementing additional measures, such as insulin administration, to maintain glycemic control. While factors like the client's weight are important for calculating fluid and nutritional needs, allergy history is vital for avoiding allergic reactions, and insurance coverage is necessary for administrative purposes, the direct impact of TPN on carbohydrate metabolism makes monitoring blood glucose the most critical assessment in this context.