Current practice in administration of parenteral nutrition: venous access.

Today, there are many alternative feeding options for patients unable to eat and drink and nutrition support has become part of everyday clinical practice. Although feeding via the enteral route used to be considered optional, recent experts have re-examined the role of parenteral nutrition, and found it to be as beneficial. This article will review current practice surrounding parental nutrition, its indications and the associated complications. Successful feeding via the intravenous route relies on the selection of the appropriate intravenous access, optimum nursing care and close patient monitoring. The range of venous access options will be discussed and advantages and disadvantages identified.