What is a common risk associated with Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)?

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) involves the intravenous administration of nutrients to patients who cannot obtain adequate nutrition through oral or enteral routes. One of the significant risks associated with TPN is the potential for infection at the catheter site. This is because TPN requires the placement of a central venous catheter, which provides a direct access point to the bloodstream. If proper aseptic techniques are not followed or if the catheter is not cared for appropriately, bacteria can easily enter the body, leading to infections.

Infections can have serious consequences, including sepsis, which can threaten the life of a patient, particularly those who are already immunocompromised or critically ill. Monitoring for signs of infection and maintaining strict hygiene protocols are essential in managing patients receiving TPN to minimize this risk.

The other options do not typically represent common risks tied to TPN. Factors such as low sodium levels may occur due to improper management of the nutrition solution, but are not as immediately associated with TPN as the risk of infection. Increased fiber intake is not applicable in TPN, since TPN solutions do not provide dietary fiber as they bypass the gastrointestinal tract. Impaired digestion is also not a direct risk of TPN since digestion is not a process