A client’s caloric needs are very high and the anticipated duration of therapy exceeds 7 days. What type of parenteral nutrition should be administered?

When a client's caloric needs are very high and the anticipated duration of therapy is more than 7 days, Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is the most appropriate option. TPN provides a complete and balanced nutrition solution administered intravenously, ensuring that all macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are delivered directly into the bloodstream. This method is essential for clients who cannot meet their nutritional needs through oral intake or enteral feeding, either due to medical conditions or specific health circumstances.

In contrast, Partial Parenteral Nutrition (PPN) is typically used when a person still has some ability to eat orally or safely receive co-existing enteral nutrition but requires supplementary caloric intake. PPN is generally less comprehensive and may not suffice for high caloric demands over a prolonged period.

Oral nutrition and enteral nutrition are also suitable alternatives for providing calories but are not feasible for clients with the aforementioned high caloric needs and the requirement for therapy lasting longer than a week. Oral nutrition may not be sufficient if the gastrointestinal tract is compromised, and enteral nutrition requires a functioning digestive system, which may limit its use in severely ill patients or those unable to tolerate feeding. Thus