What is total parenteral nutrition?

Total Parenteral Nutrition

What is total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?

Sometimes your digestive system isn't able to process foods. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) gives you liquid nutrition through a tube (catheter) inserted into a vein. These nutrients include protein, carbohydrate, and fats. The nutrients go directly into the blood. They don't go through the digestive tract.

You may need TPN if you:

  • Have an injury to or had part of your intestines removed.
  • Have a problem that makes it hard to eat and digest food. These problems include inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) or pancreatitis.
  • Have had some medical treatments. TPN lets your intestines rest during healing.

You can have TPN for days, weeks, or as long as needed. When your body is able to digest food, your doctor will stop giving you TPN.

How is total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in newborns done?

A doctor or specially trained nurse carefully places one end of a thin, flexible tube into one of your baby's major veins. This may be done through the belly button. The outside end of the tube is called the port. That's where the TPN goes in.

TPN comes in a pouch. This is attached to a pump. The pump sends the nutrients through the tube up to 24 hours a day.

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN): When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have signs of infection, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the I.V.
    • Red streaks leading from the area where the I.V. is put in.
    • Pus draining from the I.V. area.
    • A fever.
  • The I.V. comes out.
  • You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your weight goes up or down more than 5 pounds in a week.
  • You have any problems with your TPN.

How can you care for yourself when using total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?

To care for your IV

  • Follow your doctor's instructions for use and care of your IV. Your doctor, nurse, or other health professional will:
    • Tell you what fluids to give through the IV.
    • Show you how to care for the skin around the IV. Be sure to follow instructions on keeping the area clean.
    • Teach you how to watch for infection or blockage of the IV.

To give TPN

  • Follow your doctor's instructions for giving TPN. Do not change the dose or how often you get TPN without talking to your doctor first.
  • Wash your hands before you handle the TPN solution and supplies, or the IV.
  • Store the TPN solution in the refrigerator when you are not using it. Let the solution warm to room temperature before you use it. You can do this by placing the TPN bag on a clean table or kitchen counter for 2 to 3 hours before you use it. Never microwave the solution.
  • Always check each bag of TPN before you use it. If there is a problem with your TPN, save the bag and show it to your doctor or pharmacist.
    • Check the expiration date. Do not use it if it is past the expiration date.
    • Check the bag for leaks. Do not use it if there are any leaks.
    • Check the color of the TPN solution. Do not use the TPN if it is cloudy or has solid pieces floating in it.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions on how to safely dispose of used IV needles, IV tubing, and TPN bags.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.