Monitoring which of the following parameters is critical for patients on parenteral nutrition?

Monitoring which of the following parameters is critical for patients on parenteral nutrition?

• A. Skin temperature
• B. Blood glucose levels
• C. Heart rate
• D. Respiratory rate

Answer: (B)

Monitoring blood glucose levels is critical for patients on parenteral nutrition because these patients receive nutrient solutions directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels due to the high concentration of carbohydrates typically found in parenteral nutrition formulations. Hyperglycemia can occur as a result of excessive glucose intake, while hypoglycemia may occur with an abrupt reduction in glucose administration. Therefore, routine monitoring of blood glucose is essential to manage these risks, adjust nutritional components accordingly, and ensure the patient maintains stable glucose levels to prevent complications such as hyperglycemic crises or insulin-related issues. In contrast, while skin temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate may provide some insights into a patient's overall condition or potential complications, they are not specifically tied to the unique risks associated with parenteral nutrition like blood glucose levels are.

Monitoring blood glucose levels is critical for patients on parenteral nutrition because these patients receive nutrient solutions directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels due to the high concentration of carbohydrates typically found in parenteral nutrition formulations.

Hyperglycemia can occur as a result of excessive glucose intake, while hypoglycemia may occur with an abrupt reduction in glucose administration. Therefore, routine monitoring of blood glucose is essential to manage these risks, adjust nutritional components accordingly, and ensure the patient maintains stable glucose levels to prevent complications such as hyperglycemic crises or insulin-related issues.

In contrast, while skin temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate may provide some insights into a patient's overall condition or potential complications, they are not specifically tied to the unique risks associated with parenteral nutrition like blood glucose levels are.