Which laboratory result indicates a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition?

Which laboratory result indicates a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition?

• A. Serum calcium 12.5 mg/dL
• B. Blood glucose 90 mg/dL
• C. Serum electrolytes within normal range
• D. Hematocrit 42%

Answer: (A)

A serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL suggests hypercalcemia, which can be a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN solutions often contain various electrolytes and nutrients, including calcium, and an imbalance can occur if not monitored closely. Hypercalcemia can lead to serious health issues such as kidney dysfunction, cardiac problems, and neurological effects. The other laboratory results do not indicate significant complications. A blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is within normal limits and reflects good glycemic control. Serum electrolytes within the normal range suggest that the client does not have electrolyte imbalances, which are common concerns in patients on TPN. Similarly, a hematocrit level of 42% is generally considered normal and does not suggest any immediate complications related to TPN therapy. Thus, the elevated serum calcium is the only result that indicates a possible complication.

A serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL suggests hypercalcemia, which can be a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). TPN solutions often contain various electrolytes and nutrients, including calcium, and an imbalance can occur if not monitored closely. Hypercalcemia can lead to serious health issues such as kidney dysfunction, cardiac problems, and neurological effects.

The other laboratory results do not indicate significant complications. A blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is within normal limits and reflects good glycemic control. Serum electrolytes within the normal range suggest that the client does not have electrolyte imbalances, which are common concerns in patients on TPN. Similarly, a hematocrit level of 42% is generally considered normal and does not suggest any immediate complications related to TPN therapy. Thus, the elevated serum calcium is the only result that indicates a possible complication.