Question

By which route does the nurse administer parenteral nutrition? a. Intravenous b. Nasogastric c. Intra-arterial d. Nasoenteric

Short answer

a. Intravenous

Step-by-step solution

Understand Parenteral Nutrition

Parenteral nutrition is the feeding of nutritional products to a person intravenously, bypassing the usual process of eating and digestion. This is used when a person cannot receive adequate nutrition through the digestive tract.

Evaluate the Routes

Evaluate each given route considering the definition of parenteral nutrition: a. Intravenous b. Nasogastric c. Intra-arterial d. Nasoenteric

Identify the Correct Route

Parenteral nutrition is administered directly into the bloodstream. Among the listed options, the correct choice for administering nutrition directly into the bloodstream is the intravenous route.

Key concepts

Intravenous Route

The intravenous route is a method of delivering fluids, medications, and nutrition directly into a person's veins. This method is used when quick absorption and immediate effects are required.

The intravenous route stands out because:

• It allows rapid distribution of nutrients and medications throughout the body.
• It ensures 100% bioavailability, meaning that the body utilizes all the administered nutrients effectively.
• It helps in cases where oral routes are compromised, such as blockages in the digestive system.

For parenteral nutrition, using the intravenous route is essential as it ensures that the nutrients are delivered efficiently to individuals who cannot eat or digest food normally. This method ensures that the body gets the necessary nutrients without relying on gut absorption.

Nutritional Support

Nutritional support through parenteral means is critical for patients who cannot use their digestive system effectively. It involves delivering essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals directly into the bloodstream.

Key aspects of parenteral nutritional support include:

• Customizing nutrient formulas to individual patients' needs based on their health condition.
• Monitoring nutrient levels and overall health to adjust the solution as needed.
• Ensuring sterility and safety to prevent infections.

This type of nutritional support plays a vital role in maintaining patients' health, promoting recovery, and improving overall outcomes, especially in those unable to obtain adequate nutrition through traditional means.

Digestive Tract Bypass

The digestive tract bypass is a procedure or method used when the digestive system cannot process food normally, often due to medical conditions or surgeries. By bypassing the digestive tract, nutrients are delivered directly into the bloodstream using the intravenous route.

Key scenarios for bypassing the digestive tract include:

• Severe gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease or bowel obstructions.
• Recovery post-major gastrointestinal surgeries where the digestive tract needs rest.
• Certain types of cancers that affect the digestive system.

Bypassing the digestive tract and using parenteral nutrition ensures that patients still receive adequate nutrition, preventing malnutrition and supporting recovery and healing.