“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Parenteral nutrition (PN) and hydration is a method of providing nutrition and fluids directly into the bloodstream through a vein. It is typically used when a patient is unable to eat or drink by mouth, or when oral intake is inadequate to meet the body's nutritional needs.
PN and hydration solutions are prepared by a pharmacist or trained healthcare professional and contain a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to meet the patient's individual nutritional needs. The solutions are administered through a catheter inserted into a vein, typically in the arm or chest, and are gradually infused over several hours.
PN and hydration is often used in hospital settings for patients with conditions that prevent them from eating or drinking normally, such as severe gastrointestinal disorders, cancer, or critical illness. It may also be used for patients recovering from surgery or those who are unable to eat or drink for an extended period of time.
While PN and hydration can be life-saving, it carries some risks, including infection, blood clots, and metabolic complications. Close monitoring of patients receiving PN and hydration is necessary to detect and manage any potential complications.
Overall, PN and hydration can be an effective way to provide essential nutrients and fluids to patients who are unable to eat or drink normally. The decision to use PN and hydration is made on an individual basis by a healthcare provider and is based on the patient's medical condition, nutritional status, and overall health.