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total parenteral nutrition

(TOH-tul puh-REN-teh-rul noo-TRIH-shun)
A form of long-term nutritional support that is given directly into the bloodstream through a catheter placed into a vein. Total parenteral nutrition bypasses the digestive system and may be given when a person is not able to eat or drink by mouth or has a disease or condition that affects their ability to absorb nutrients through the digestive system. Total parenteral nutrition is complete nutrition that provides all the calories, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals that a person needs when they cannot digest food. Also called TPN.
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