Which of the following is a sign of glucose intolerance in infants on PN?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Hyponatremia
• D. Hypokalemia

Answer: (B)

Glucose intolerance in infants on PN shows up as hyperglycemia because a continuous PN dextrose supply can overwhelm the infant’s still-maturing insulin response. In many newborns, especially preterm, insulin production and sensitivity are limited, so when the PN delivers a high or rapid glucose load, plasma glucose rises. This is the signal that the body isn’t handling the glucose efficiently.

Hyponatremia and hypokalemia are electrolyte issues that can occur with PN for various reasons but do not reflect how well glucose is being processed. Hypoglycemia would indicate too little glucose is reaching the bloodstream or impaired glucose production, not intolerance to the glucose being given.