What is the approximate duration of Jessica's TPN course?

• A. 3 days
• B. 7 days
• C. 10 days
• D. 14 days

Answer: (C)

The length of total parenteral nutrition is guided by how quickly the gut heals, when oral or enteral feeding can be safely restarted, and how quickly metabolic status stabilizes. In this scenario, the plan to gradually transition from TPN as Jessica resumes feeding and her labs and weight stabilize points to a moderate course length. About ten days provides enough time for bowel rest and healing, ensures she can meet energy and protein needs with a combination of IV and advancing enteral intake, and allows close monitoring of electrolytes, glucose, and liver function. Shorter durations wouldn’t give sufficient time for recovery and transition, while longer courses raise the risk of IV-related complications and metabolic issues. So, ten days is the most fitting estimate given typical recovery and transition timelines in this context.