What are the desired therapeutic outcomes of PN?

The desired therapeutic outcomes of parenteral nutrition (PN) focus on providing essential nutrients to patients who cannot obtain adequate nutrition through oral or enteral routes. Improved nutritional status signifies that the patient is receiving the necessary vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients to support their overall health and recovery. Weight maintenance or gain is crucial in patients who may be malnourished or at risk of nutrient deficiency; this ensures that they are not losing lean body mass and are maintaining optimal body functioning.

A positive nitrogen balance indicates that the amount of nitrogen consumed (primarily from protein) exceeds the amount excreted. This is important for healing processes, tissue repair, and overall metabolic health. Achieving these outcomes is essential to support patients in recovery from illness, surgery, or conditions that impair nutrient absorption or intake.

Other options, while important in different contexts, do not directly address the primary goals and benefits of parenteral nutrition. The focus of PN is specifically on nutrient delivery and overall nutritional adequacy, rather than energy levels, pain management, blood pressure stability, or digestive function.