Vitamin A delivery in total parenteral nutrition solution

Vitamin A delivery was studied in total parenteral nutrition as used for neonates. Although the data show that the patient receives more vitamin A than dictated by known needs or advised intakes, delivery to the patient is roughly one third of that which would be predicted from the initial intravenous solution composition. Adsorption of the vitamin to the chamber and tubing is the major factor in decreasing vitamin A administration to the patient. When evaluating nutrition techniques, documentation of nutrient delivery to the patient is essential.