Question

Which of the following is not a defining characteristic of a lipids free T.P.N.?

1) High calorie content
2) Low protein content
3) Absence of lipids
4) Adequate carbohydrate content

Answer 1

The correct answer to which characteristic is not true for a lipids free T.P.N. is Low protein content. T.P.N. should contain an adequate amount of protein unless specifically contraindicated, and the low protein content is not a defining feature of such a nutritional solution (option 2).

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question asks which option is not a defining characteristic of a lipids free T.P.N. (Total Parenteral Nutrition). These options are designed to reflect the nutritional components of a T.P.N. solution that is free from lipids. Total Parenteral Nutrition is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. Fluids are given into a vein to provide most or all of the nutrients the body needs. When considering the characteristics of T.P.N.:

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• High calorie content is expected because T.P.N. aims to provide sufficient energy for the patient.
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• Absence of lipids is a defining feature of a lipids free T.P.N., as indicated in the name.
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• Adequate carbohydrate content is necessary to meet the energy requirements in the absence of lipids.
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• Low protein content is not a characteristic of T.P.N., as it usually contains an adequate amount of protein to meet the patient's nutritional requirements unless contraindicated for a specific clinical reason.

Therefore, the correct answer is Low protein content, which is not a defining characteristic of a lipids free T.P.N (option 2).

Answer 2

The correct answer is

3) Absence of lipids.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lipids, also known as fats, are an essential component of Total Parenteral Nutrition (T.P.N.). T.P.N. is a method of providing nutrition intravenously to individuals who cannot obtain adequate nutrition through oral or enteral routes. It typically consists of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. The absence of lipids in T.P.N. would be an atypical and non-defining characteristic, as lipids play a crucial role in providing a concentrated source of energy.

Firstly, lipids are highly calorie-dense, providing approximately 9 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram for both carbohydrates and proteins. This high calorie content is important for patients who require T.P.N. to meet their energy needs. Therefore, the presence of lipids is essential for achieving the high calorie content associated with T.P.N. formulations.

Secondly lipids contribute to the formulation's osmolarity. The absence of lipids may result in an inadequate osmolarity level, impacting the stability of the T.P.N. solution. Adequate osmolarity is crucial to prevent complications such as phlebitis and thrombophlebitis at the infusion site.

In conclusion the absence of lipids in T.P.N. contradicts the typical composition of this nutritional intervention affecting both the calorie content and osmolarity. Thus, option 3) "Absence of lipids" is not a defining characteristic of T.P.N. formulations.