IV Care: TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) Therapy
TPN fluids feed the body without passing through the stomach. TPN is given by IV with a pump.
Know Your TPN Fluids
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Read the drug sheet that comes with the TPN. Be aware of any warnings and side effects.
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Check the label on the TPN bag before starting an IV. Make sure the patient name, TPN fluids, and dose are correct.
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Do not use TPN with an expired date.
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Do not use TPN if there are leaks in the bag.
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Do not use TPN if it looks curdled or oily.
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Do not use TPN if it has particles in it.
Handle Supplies As Directed
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Store TPN in the refrigerator. If it’s not kept cold, TPN lasts only 24 hours. Do not freeze.
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Before using TPN, allow it to get close to room temperature. Do not heat.
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If vitamins need to be added to the TPN, do so as directed.
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Put all used needles and syringes in a sharps box.
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When the IV is done, put the used supplies in a plastic bag. Seal the bag and throw it in the trash.
Track Your Health
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Weigh yourself daily. If you lose or gain weight, your TPN dose may need adjusting.
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Keep track of your urine output as directed. Tell the nurse if the amount increases or decreases a lot.
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Check your blood sugar if directed. A nurse may take a blood sample from you each week. This is to make sure your TPN dose is right for you.
Know These IV Basics
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Keep the dressing over the catheter exit site clean and dry. Change the dressing if it comes loose or gets soiled or wet.
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Flush the catheter with saline or heparin as directed.
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Wipe all injection sites with alcohol.
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Be sure all IV supplies are in sealed packets. If sterile packets are open, throw away those supplies.
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Do not stop the pump during an IV unless a nurse tells you to.
When to Call the Nurse
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Redness near the catheter exit site or at any spot along the catheter line
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Fever or chills
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Swelling in the arm, neck, or chest
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Drainage at the exit site
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The catheter slips or comes out
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The TPN doesn’t flow well through the tubing
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The alarm on the pump comes on
If you have trouble breathing, Call 911 or emergency services
