Which of the following situations indicates the need for parenteral nutrition?

Parenteral nutrition is indicated when the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is not functioning adequately to absorb nutrients. This can occur in various situations such as bowel obstructions, severe pancreatitis, or inflammatory bowel diseases, where the body cannot adequately digest or absorb food. In such cases, nutrient delivery directly into the bloodstream is essential to meet the client’s nutritional needs and support recovery.

Choosing parenteral nutrition allows for the provision of all necessary macronutrients and micronutrients, bypassing the digestive system entirely. This is crucial in scenarios where oral intake or enteral nutrition (nutrition delivered through the GI tract) isn’t feasible or safe. Thus, when the GI tract is compromised, parenteral nutrition becomes necessary to sustain the patient's nutritional status.

The other options present scenarios that do not warrant parenteral nutrition. Liquid diets can be appropriate for those who can still utilize their GI tract; elective surgery does not automatically require parenteral nutrition unless complications arise; and preference for three meals a day is generally a matter of dietary choice rather than a medical need.