“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Parenteral nutrition is a medical treatment that provides nutrients to the body through an intravenous (IV) catheter or other access point, bypassing the digestive system. It is typically used for patients who cannot or should not eat through the digestive system due to medical conditions such as intestinal obstruction, severe malabsorption, or severe gastrointestinal disease.
Parenteral nutrition provides a balanced mixture of nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, directly into the bloodstream. The composition of the parenteral nutrition solution is tailored to meet the individual needs of the patient and is monitored closely by healthcare professionals.
The administration of parenteral nutrition requires careful monitoring and management to prevent complications such as infection, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and electrolyte imbalances. The catheter site and the solution are monitored for signs of infection, and blood glucose levels are monitored regularly to ensure they remain within a safe range.
Parenteral nutrition can be administered in a hospital setting, but may also be administered in the home setting under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Patients receiving parenteral nutrition require close monitoring and frequent follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to ensure the treatment is effective and safe.
While parenteral nutrition can be a lifesaving treatment for patients who cannot eat through the digestive system, it is not without risks and requires careful monitoring and management.