Total parenteral nutrition

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a special type of food that is given to people who can't eat food normally. It is a mixture of all the nutrients that a person needs to live and grow, like protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.

Sometimes, people get sick or hurt and are not able to eat food because their stomach or intestines are not working properly. In such cases, doctors might give them nutrients directly into their blood through a tube called a catheter.

TPN is prepared by specially trained doctors and nurses who make sure that the mixture has all the right amounts of nutrients that a person needs. The TPN solution is given to the person through an IV line that goes directly into their bloodstream. This way, the nutrients can get to all parts of the body and provide energy and help with healing.

Because TPN is very important for people who can't eat normally, doctors and nurses are very careful when they give it. They always make sure that the IV line is clean and the TPN solution is at the right temperature and mixed correctly. They also check the person's blood every day to make sure that the nutrients are working properly and the person is getting better.

TPN can help people who are very sick, have bowel disease or cancer, or have had major surgery. It can also be given to newborn babies who are not able to drink milk or their mother's milk. TPN can help these people get the nutrients they need to heal and grow stronger.