Parenteral nutrition may be necessary if a patient is unable to get appropriate nutrition on his or her own. Recognizing the signs of malnutrition and properly assessing the patient’s medical and physical history are important steps to master before deciding if the patient is a candidate for parenteral nutrition.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• 1. differentiate between the various assessments available to confirm a diagnosis of malnutrition.
• 2. discuss the goals of parenteral nutrition as well as the indications and patient selection for parenteral nutrition.
• 3. calculate the caloric and nutritional needs based on individual patient requirements.
• 4. discuss the process of initiating, monitoring, and weaning a patient on parenteral nutrition.
• 5. identify complications of parenteral nutrition.