Why is a central venous catheter preferred for TPN?

Why is a central venous catheter preferred for TPN?

• A. To allow long-term outpatient use
• B. To tolerate a hyperosmolar solution
• C. To minimize infection risk
• D. To enable easy removal

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that TPN uses highly concentrated, hyperosmolar solutions that must be given into a central vein. Peripheral veins can’t tolerate such osmolality without causing irritation or vein injury, so they would be prone to phlebitis or extravasation. A central venous catheter delivers the solution into a large central vein where the high osmolar load is rapidly diluted by the great blood flow, making administration safer and feasible for long-term use. This setup also accommodates lipid emulsions and other components of TPN.

The main idea is that TPN uses highly concentrated, hyperosmolar solutions that must be given into a central vein. Peripheral veins can’t tolerate such osmolality without causing irritation or vein injury, so they would be prone to phlebitis or extravasation. A central venous catheter delivers the solution into a large central vein where the high osmolar load is rapidly diluted by the great blood flow, making administration safer and feasible for long-term use. This setup also accommodates lipid emulsions and other components of TPN.