When monitoring a patient on parenteral nutrition, which electrolyte imbalance is of particular concern?

When monitoring a patient on parenteral nutrition, which electrolyte imbalance is of particular concern?

• A. Hypochloremia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hypocalcemia
• D. Electrolyte levels

Answer: (D)

The focus on monitoring electrolyte levels in patients receiving parenteral nutrition is critical because these patients rely entirely on intravenous nutrition, leaving them vulnerable to various imbalances. While choices A, B, and C refer to specific electrolyte imbalances, the overall importance of regularly testing and assessing all electrolyte levels is emphasized in patients on parenteral nutrition. This entails closely monitoring sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate, as any significant fluctuations can lead to serious complications. Electrolyte imbalances can arise from multiple factors, including inadequate supplementation, alterations in hydration status, or the underlying conditions of the patient. Recognizing the collective monitoring of all electrolyte levels (as indicated in the choice related to electrolyte levels) ensures that potential issues can be identified and addressed promptly, maintaining the patient's overall health and safety during their treatment.

The focus on monitoring electrolyte levels in patients receiving parenteral nutrition is critical because these patients rely entirely on intravenous nutrition, leaving them vulnerable to various imbalances. While choices A, B, and C refer to specific electrolyte imbalances, the overall importance of regularly testing and assessing all electrolyte levels is emphasized in patients on parenteral nutrition. This entails closely monitoring sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate, as any significant fluctuations can lead to serious complications.

Electrolyte imbalances can arise from multiple factors, including inadequate supplementation, alterations in hydration status, or the underlying conditions of the patient. Recognizing the collective monitoring of all electrolyte levels (as indicated in the choice related to electrolyte levels) ensures that potential issues can be identified and addressed promptly, maintaining the patient's overall health and safety during their treatment.