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The patient is on parenteral nutrition and is lethargic. The patient reports thirst and headache and has had increased urination. Which problem does the nurse prepare to address?

  • A. Hyperglycemia
  • B. Hypoglycemia
  • C. Hypercapnia
  • D. Hypocapnia
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyperglycemia. The patient's symptoms like lethargy, thirst, headache, increased urination are indicative of high blood sugar levels. Lethargy is a common symptom of hyperglycemia due to the body's inability to use glucose effectively. Thirst and increased urination occur as the body tries to get rid of excess glucose through urine. Headache can result from dehydration due to increased urination. To address hyperglycemia, the nurse may need to adjust the patient's parenteral nutrition, monitor blood glucose levels, and potentially administer insulin.

Incorrect choices:
B: Hypoglycemia - Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, confusion, and shakiness, which are not present in this case.
C: Hypercapnia - This is high carbon dioxide levels in the blood, typically caused by respiratory issues, not related to the symptoms described.
D: Hypocapnia - This is low carbon dioxide levels