An update on neonatal parenteral nutrition

Parenteral nutrition (PN) – the provision of nutrients by an intravenous route – can be used as the sole source of protein, lipid, carbohydrate and other essential nutrients (total PN, TPN) or to supplement milk feeding (partial PN). PN is available in almost all neonatal units in the UK although there is much variation in practice. This article reviews the recent British Association of Perinatal Medicine framework for practice on the provision of PN and emphasises the importance of developing local guidelines to ensure consistency of practice.