Total Parenteral Nutrition Flashcards
Indications for TPN
- Used to meet nutritional needs of patients who cannot via GI tract.
- Moderate to severe malnourishment
- Negative nitrogen balance
- Impaired GI tract
- Acute pancreatitis
- GI bleeding
- Episodes/exacerbations of Crohn’s disease
- Severe burns or trauma
- Liver or renal disease
- Radiation enteritis
- Terminal illness
TPN Nutrient Components
- Amino acids
- Glucose (concentration is 10% or 15-25%)
- Fat emulsion (lipids/intrapids) (may be infused separately)
- Vitamins
- Electrolytes
- Minerals
- Trace elements
- Water
Who can set up and maintain a TPN infusion?
An RN
The glucose concentration of your patient’s TPN is >10%. How should you administer this TPN?
Infuse through a central or PICC line
Can TPN be infused to a port that is used for infusing other medications?
No. TPN must be infused through a dedicated port.
How is TPN made?
Custom mix for each patient made in pharmacy under strict, aseptic technique.
How is TPN infused?
Via an infusion pump, usually over 24 hours. Must be changed every 24 hours.
Is TPN filtered?
Yes. With an in-line 0.2 micron filter. Lipids are not filtered.
Can medications be added to TPN solution bags?
No, NEVER!
Can you piggy back on TPN?
No.
Does TPN infusion require clean or aseptic technique?
Aseptic
How should TPN be stored?
Kept refrigerated until 30 minutes prior to being infused. Lipids do not require refrigeration.
What should the nurse do if TPN is not available?
Infuse dextrose 10% and water (D10W) until it is available to prevent rebound hypoglycemia
How can a separate transfusion of lipids be infused?
Peripheral intravenous catheter
What should the nurse check for prior to infusing TPN?
- Check bag against order for correct patient name, formula, components, and expiration date.
- Examine solution for turbidity, precipitation, cloudiness, holes or cracks.