Learning About Total Parenteral Nutrition in Newborns

What is total parenteral nutrition (TPN)?

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a way to give nutrients to your baby through an I.V. tube (catheter) that is inserted into a vein. The tube sends liquid nutrients directly into the blood. The blood carries the nutrients to your baby's tissues and organs. The nutrients don't have to go through the digestive system.

TPN is used if your baby can't be fed by mouth or through a feeding tube. Your baby can get TPN as long as needed.

Your baby may need special care, such as being in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), while they are on TPN. You may have questions about how your baby is fed with TPN. The hospital staff understands your need to know. They will explain what happens and will answer your questions.

How is TPN done?

A doctor or specially trained nurse carefully places one end of a I.V. tube (catheter) into one of your baby's major veins. This may be done through the belly button. The outside end of the tube is called the port. That's where the TPN goes in.

TPN comes in a pouch. This is attached to a pump. The pump sends the TPN through the tube up to 24 hours a day.

What can you expect?

• Your baby won't feel any pain from the I.V. that delivers the TPN.
• The hospital staff will keep the I.V. and the skin around it clean. This helps prevent infections.
• It can be scary to see tubes attached to your baby. But TPN helps your baby get the nutrition they need until they are able to eat by mouth or be fed through a feeding tube.
• The hospital staff will monitor your baby to make sure that the TPN is providing the right amount of nutrition for your baby.
• It's hard to be apart from your baby, especially when you worry about your baby's condition. Know that the hospital staff is well prepared to care for babies who need TPN. They will do everything they can to help. If you need it, ask for support from friends and family. You can also ask the hospital staff about counseling and support.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.