Skip navigation
     
   Other Topics: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W XYZ All Topics

Nutritional Support

Also called: Artificial feeding, Artificial hydration and nutrition, Hyperalimentation, Parenteral nutrition, TPN, Tube feeding 
 
 

Nutritional support is for people who cannot get enough nourishment by eating or drinking. You may need it if you

  • Can't swallow
  • Have problems with your appetite or are severely malnourished
  • Can't absorb nutrients through your digestive system

You receive nutritional support through a needle or catheter placed in your vein or with a feeding tube, which goes into your stomach.

Giving nutritional support can have both benefits and risks. Families considering nutritional support for a loved one who cannot make decisions should discuss the options with the patient's doctor.

Related Topics

 

 

 

Page last updated on 22 April 2012 Topic last reviewed 11 April 2012