TPN can only be administered through which type of vein?

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is a method of delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. The administration of TPN typically requires a central venous access because it involves infusing a highly concentrated solution that can irritate peripheral veins. Central veins have a larger diameter and can accommodate the high osmolarity of TPN solutions while also reducing the risk of complications such as thrombophlebitis.

The central vein access enables the safe and effective delivery of nutrition over an extended period, which is often essential for patients who cannot eat or absorb nutrients through their gastrointestinal tract. Utilizing a central vein also allows for the placement of a longer catheter that can stay in place for a more extended duration, making it suitable for long-term nutritional therapy.

Other types of veins, such as peripheral or superficial veins, do not provide the same level of safety or effectiveness for TPN administration due to the reasons mentioned. A peripheral vein would be more prone to complications from the concentrated solutions and would not be suitable for long-term use needed for TPN.