TPN and Nutrition in Cancer Treatment

Importance of Nutrition

• Essential for keeping the body strong and healthy during cancer treatment.
• Fuels the body and aids in adhering to scheduled treatment plans.

Challenges in Nutrition During Cancer Treatment

• Difficulty in eating or tolerating tube feeding.
• Possible deficiency in essential nutrients.

Introduction to TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition)

What is TPN?

• A method of feeding that bypasses the digestive system.
• Delivers nutrients directly into the bloodstream.

Components of TPN

• Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for health and growth.
• Protein: Aids in healing, muscle building, tissue repair, and infection fighting.
• Carbohydrates: Primary energy source, aids vitamin absorption.
• Fat: Provides energy.

How TPN Works

• Continuously distributes nutrients into the body.
• Administered via an IV, potentially up to 24 hours per infusion.
• Can be administered while sleeping.

Administration and Mobility

• Delivered through a central line.
• Not painful.
• Allows mobility with IV stands and backpacks.
• Possible to administer TPN at home.

Addressing Malnutrition

• Malnutrition common in cancer patients, even those eating normally.
• TPN helps reverse malnutrition.
• Temporary solution aimed at eventually returning to normal eating or tube feeding.

Risks and Considerations

• Long-term use of TPN not recommended (risk of infections, liver damage).
• TPN is a temporary aid.

Support and Goals

• Dietitian and medical team work to enhance nutrition.
• Goals include maintaining healthy weight, growth, development, better feeling, and faster healing.

Questions and Communication

• Encourage discussion with a dietitian for any questions regarding TPN.