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. Serum potassium 4.0 mEq/L
• C. Serum albumin 3.0 g/dL
• D. Serum glucose 120 mg/dL

Answer: (A)

The laboratory result indicating a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition is the elevated serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) provides essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, but it can lead to various complications, including imbalances in electrolytes and minerals. An elevated serum calcium level can suggest hypercalcemia, which may occur due to an imbalance in calcium metabolism often related to the high concentration of calcium in some TPN formulations or as a result of underlying conditions affected by nutritional changes. Hypercalcemia can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, and neurological disturbances, all of which can complicate the management of clients on TPN. Other results, like serum potassium at 4.0 mEq/L, serum albumin at 3.0 g/dL, and serum glucose at 120 mg/dL, are within normal or acceptable ranges that do not typically indicate immediate complications associated with TPN management. These levels suggest adequate nutrient levels and metabolic control, making them less concerning compared to the elevated calcium level.

The laboratory result indicating a possible complication for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition is the elevated serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) provides essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, but it can lead to various complications, including imbalances in electrolytes and minerals.

An elevated serum calcium level can suggest hypercalcemia, which may occur due to an imbalance in calcium metabolism often related to the high concentration of calcium in some TPN formulations or as a result of underlying conditions affected by nutritional changes. Hypercalcemia can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, and neurological disturbances, all of which can complicate the management of clients on TPN.

Other results, like serum potassium at 4.0 mEq/L, serum albumin at 3.0 g/dL, and serum glucose at 120 mg/dL, are within normal or acceptable ranges that do not typically indicate immediate complications associated with TPN management. These levels suggest adequate nutrient levels and metabolic control, making them less concerning compared to the elevated calcium level.