Parenteral nutrition: an overview of current practice

Abstract

Nutritional support should always be provided via the gastrointestinal tract if possible, but parenteral nutrition, i.e. infusion of nutrients directly into the venous circulation, can be a safe and effective method of nutritional support when used in carefully selected patients and monitored appropriately. A multidisciplinary team approach to patient selection, assessment and monitoring is recommended. Access for parenteral feeding is traditionally via a central vein, but the peripheral route can be used for short-term feeding and should be considered for the majority of patients. Nutritional requirements should be assessed on an individual basis and a feeding regimen designed using standard formulations where possible. The transition back onto oral or enteral nutrition should be closely supervised by a dietitian. Parenteral feeding can be provided to the community if appropriate, but thorough training, monitoring and support are essential.