Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What adverse effect should a nurse monitor for in a client receiving an IV infusion of dextrose 10% in water?

1. Hypovolemia.

2. Hypokalemia.

3. Hypercalcemia.

4. Hyperglycemia.

The correct answer is: Hyperglycemia.

Monitoring for hyperglycemia in a client receiving an IV infusion of dextrose 10% in water is essential because this solution contains a significant amount of glucose. When administered, the body may not be able to effectively utilize the increased glucose levels, particularly in individuals who have impaired insulin sensitivity or diabetes. The introduction of extra glucose can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, resulting in hyperglycemia. In addition, administering a hypertonic solution like dextrose 10% has the potential to exacerbate any existing conditions that could lead to or worsen hyperglycemia, such as stress, illness, or certain medications. Therefore, healthcare providers need to monitor blood glucose levels regularly during the infusion to manage possible spikes and to intervene promptly if hyperglycemia is detected. The other potential adverse effects, while they may be relevant in different contexts, do not directly correlate with the primary concern for a patient receiving this specific IV solution. Hypovolemia relates to overall fluid volume status, while hypokalemia and hypercalcemia are more specifically associated with other clinical situations.