Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) gives a person liquid nutrition (such as protein, carbohydrates, and fats) through a tube (catheter) that is inserted into a vein. In a newborn, the tube may be inserted into the umbilical cord artery.

TPN places nutrients needed for growth and tissue repair directly into the blood, bypassing the digestive tract completely.

A person's blood sugar and blood chemicals (such as electrolytes) are monitored while they receive this type of nourishment.

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library