Which statement best describes the primary purpose of TPN in Jessica's management?

• A. It provides nutrition during bowel rest to support healing
• B. It cures ulcerative colitis
• C. It delivers chemotherapy
• D. It corrects dehydration only

Answer: (A)

Providing complete nutrition through an IV when the bowel needs to rest is the main purpose of total parenteral nutrition. In a severe flare of ulcerative colitis, the inflamed gut may not tolerate or adequately absorb nutrients from the diet. TPN delivers calories, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, which supports tissue repair, immune function, and healing while the bowel rests. This is a supportive measure, not a cure for ulcerative colitis, and it isn’t chemotherapy. While IV fluids can address dehydration, TPN’s primary role is ensuring adequate nutrition and promoting healing, not dehydration correction alone.