Description:
A form of nutritional support that is given directly into the bloodstream through a catheter placed into a vein. Parenteral nutrition bypasses the digestive system and may be given when a person is not able to eat or drink by mouth or has a disease or condition that affects their ability to absorb nutrients through the digestive system. There are two types of parenteral nutrition: partial parenteral nutrition (PPN) and total parenteral nutrition (TPN). PPN is supplemental nutrition that is given when a person cannot get enough calories or the right amount of nutrients that their body needs from the food they are eating. TPN is complete nutrition that provides all the calories, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals that a person needs when they cannot digest food. Also called hyperalimentation.
