Among patients receiving total parenteral nutrition, what is the most common complication?

Among patients receiving total parenteral nutrition, what is the most common complication?

• A. Electrolyte imbalance
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Infection
• D. Air embolism

Answer: (C)

Catheter-related infection leading to a bloodstream infection is the most common complication of total parenteral nutrition. A central venous catheter stays in place and is accessed frequently, creating an entry point for skin microbes and environmental organisms. The TPN solution itself provides abundant nutrients, so any contamination can quickly become a bloodstream infection. Breaks in sterile technique during access, line care, or dressing changes, and prolonged catheter use, all raise this risk. Other issues like electrolyte imbalances or hyperglycemia can occur because of the nutrient composition, but they happen less often overall compared with infections. Air embolism is a potential risk, but it is less common and typically linked to catheter insertion or disconnection events. Preventing infections hinges on strict aseptic technique, proper line care, regular dressing changes, and vigilant monitoring for signs of infection.

Catheter-related infection leading to a bloodstream infection is the most common complication of total parenteral nutrition. A central venous catheter stays in place and is accessed frequently, creating an entry point for skin microbes and environmental organisms. The TPN solution itself provides abundant nutrients, so any contamination can quickly become a bloodstream infection. Breaks in sterile technique during access, line care, or dressing changes, and prolonged catheter use, all raise this risk.

Other issues like electrolyte imbalances or hyperglycemia can occur because of the nutrient composition, but they happen less often overall compared with infections. Air embolism is a potential risk, but it is less common and typically linked to catheter insertion or disconnection events.

Preventing infections hinges on strict aseptic technique, proper line care, regular dressing changes, and vigilant monitoring for signs of infection.