What is a characteristic of Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition (PPN)?

Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition (PPN) is characterized by its administration through peripheral veins rather than central veins. This method allows for the delivery of nutrients to patients who have a functioning gastrointestinal tract but cannot meet their nutritional needs through oral or enteral routes.

The key characteristic aligning with PPN is that it generally involves less cost and lower risk compared to Central Parenteral Nutrition (CPN), which requires central venous access and is associated with more complications such as infections and thrombosis. PPN is best suited for short-term nutritional support due to limitations in the concentration of nutrients, hence it is not designed for long-term use. While PPN can still incur costs, it typically presents a lower financial impact than CPN due to the simpler equipment and reduced risk profile.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for healthcare professionals when determining the appropriate nutritional support for patients, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right method based on the individual's needs and safety profile.