Tpn

[Holly27]

Ok I got a question. I saw a order for a pt that started having problems swallowing and decrease appetite. They are using a bag specially made by pharm. I dont or can't remember the actual name for it. Some call it "Kool-Aid". It had Amino Acid, Ca+, K+ in it and so on.I do know the dr adjust it almost daily. Its also the color of urine. and then you hang a lipid drip with it. Anyways I over heard the family talking about it to the nurse. I guess my question is the same as the family. What are the benefits of this over say NG tube feeding ? If any. And whats so special about it? Is it better for the pt? or certain ones? Basically I don't understand. No one could really give me a in-depth answer on it. Thanks for any info you could give. Is this the only type of TPN?

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Good explanation by Meownsmile.

The preferred way to provide nutrition is the natural way, i.e. through the GI tract. So if a person has dysphagia, or is not eating due to dementia, pysch issue, trauma, or whatever, it's best to feed with tube feeding. The GI tract can deteriorate without food.

However, if a person is having extreme nausea or vomitting, absorption issues, obstruction,or as was mentioned thrombocytopenia which can cause bleeding, etc., or needed to have their electrolytes more tightly controlled (rare) then TPN is the choice.

None really has an "advantage" over the other, but the patient's condition and assessment should be the guide as to which is advantageous for that particularly person.