What is Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) primarily designed for?

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is primarily designed for patients who are unable to eat adequately. This method involves delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line, bypassing the digestive system entirely. TPN is essential for those who cannot consume food orally due to various reasons, such as certain medical conditions, surgeries, or gastrointestinal disorders that impair nutrient absorption or digestion.

Patients who can eat normal meals or those needing routine supplementation do not require TPN, as they can receive adequate nutrition through standard dietary means. In cases of gastrointestinal issues, while TPN can be effective for patients who cannot utilize their gastrointestinal tract, it is not typically the first-line treatment unless there is a significant inability to absorb or digest nutrients.