In monitoring a patient receiving total parenteral nutrition, which parameter is commonly checked?

• A. Urine output
• B. Blood glucose level
• C. Skin turgor
• D. Visual acuity

Answer: (B)

TPN delivers a continuous infusion of glucose, so monitoring the blood glucose level is essential. The high dextrose content can cause hyperglycemia if not watched, and insulin may be needed to maintain euglycemia. Regular glucose checks—often every 4 to 6 hours initially—help prevent complications and guide adjustments to the TPN rate or insulin therapy. Urine output, skin turgor, and visual acuity provide general health information but do not reflect the metabolic impact of the TPN as directly as glucose monitoring does.