What clinical sign might indicate hyperglycemia in a patient on parenteral nutrition?

What clinical sign might indicate hyperglycemia in a patient on parenteral nutrition?

• A. Increased thirst
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Muscle cramps

Answer: (A)

Increased thirst is a clinical sign that can indicate hyperglycemia, especially in patients receiving parenteral nutrition. When blood sugar levels rise above normal, the body seeks to expel the excess glucose through urine, leading to a higher volume of urination (polyuria). As a result, the body loses more fluids, which can trigger the sensation of increased thirst (polydipsia) as a compensatory mechanism to rehydrate. This symptom serves as a warning to healthcare providers that the patient's blood sugar levels may need to be monitored and potentially managed more closely. Recognizing this sign is crucial to prevent further complications associated with uncontrolled hyperglycemia, such as ketosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, particularly in patients who are dependent on intravenous nutrition.

Increased thirst is a clinical sign that can indicate hyperglycemia, especially in patients receiving parenteral nutrition. When blood sugar levels rise above normal, the body seeks to expel the excess glucose through urine, leading to a higher volume of urination (polyuria). As a result, the body loses more fluids, which can trigger the sensation of increased thirst (polydipsia) as a compensatory mechanism to rehydrate.

This symptom serves as a warning to healthcare providers that the patient's blood sugar levels may need to be monitored and potentially managed more closely. Recognizing this sign is crucial to prevent further complications associated with uncontrolled hyperglycemia, such as ketosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, particularly in patients who are dependent on intravenous nutrition.