TPN (total parenteral nutrition)
Formal Definition
IV nutrition providing complete nutritional support when a patient cannot take oral or enteral feeds.
How It's Used on the Ward
"The patient is going on TPN" — started when gut rest is needed for extended periods.
Example
""Post-op day 6, still NPO with ileus, not expected to eat for another week. Surgery is ordering TPN — needs a dedicated central line or PICC.""
Clinical Context
TPN requires a central line (PICC or subclavian) and is started only after a formal nutrition consult. Hyperglycemia is common — insulin is often added to the bag.
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