Parenteral nutrition: considerations for practice

Malnutrition in the UK is estimated to affect 3 million people in the UK, costing the economy pound 13 billion a year. The effects can adversely affect an individual's wellbeing by exacerbating illness or reducing the prospect of a speedy recovery. The early identification of this actual or potential risk is recognised by using a validated nutritional screening tool as part of the patient assessment. Where risks are identified a structured plan should be put in place utilising oral and enteral techniques in nutritional support. However, for a number of patients these routes of feeding may not be an option, or may not fully meet the patient's nutritional requirements. It is in these circumstances that parenteral feeding may be considered under the supervision of a nutrition team. The careful selection of the parenteral solution alongside the most appropriate venous device to deliver the nutrition can assist in the effectiveness of this treatment and help in reducing the potential complications associated with this route.