Parenteral Nutrition
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
PN provides your body with nutrients. PN is recommended when you are not able to eat enough to get the nutrients you need. PN is given through an IV placed in a vein in your arm, upper chest, or neck. PN provides you with liquid nutrients. These include protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. You may need PN for weeks or months.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and you have chest pain.
- You cough up blood.
- You have pain or discomfort in your neck or shoulder.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You weigh more or less than your healthcare provider says you should.
- You are urinating less than your healthcare provider says you should.
- The skin around your catheter site is red, warm, and swollen.
- Blood or PN solution leaks from the tube site.
- You have pain or swelling in your arm.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Self-care at home with PN:
- Weigh yourself 3 to 4 times a week to monitor any weight changes.
- Check your catheter site for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth, and discharge. Take your temperature as directed.
- Keep track of how much PN and other IV liquids you take in, and how much you urinate.
- Test your blood sugar level.
- Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed. You will need regular blood tests to monitor your condition.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
You will need regular testing to monitor your condition. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
