Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is ordered by the physician when a patient is unable to take food by mouth or by enteral (tube) feeding to the stomach or small intestine.
Parenteral Nutrition Therapy
Delivering Vital Nutrients
Parenteral feeding bypasses the standard digestive system, and nutrients are delivered directly into the bloodstream through a catheter inserted into a vein. The catheter may be placed by a specially trained nurse into a vein in the chest or in the arm.
Patients with the following issues may benefit from parenteral nutrition:
- Stomach and intestines that are not functioning properly or have been removed
- Severe nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting
- Severe sores in the mouth or esophagus
- A fistula (hole) in the stomach or esophagus
- Loss of body weight and muscle with normal enteral nutrition
Patients with the following issues may benefit from parenteral nutrition:
- Stomach and intestines that are not functioning properly or have been removed
- Severe nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting
- Severe sores in the mouth or esophagus
- A fistula (hole) in the stomach or esophagus
- Loss of body weight and muscle with normal enteral nutrition
FREQUENTLY ASKED
Why Do I Need TPN Therapy?
TPN is the standard therapy for patients who cannot absorb vital nutrients through oral food consumption or digestion. TPN may be used to treat severe disorders expected to last for a relatively short time, or it may also be used as a long-term therapy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
How Long Does TPN Therapy Take?
ContinuumRx will formulate and administer your TPN therapy in the home based on your doctor’s recommendation. TPN is normally given as either a continuous infusion over 24 hours or an intermittent infusion over 12-16 hours. Many patients prefer to use intermittent TPN overnight while they sleep. TPN therapy prevents lengthy hospital stays and can be given safely and effectively in your home.
