Question:

Complications of total parenteral nutrition include which of the following?

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Both a sugar problem and a potassium problem are classic metabolic hazards of TPN.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Hyperglycemia
  • Hyperkalemia
  • Hyperosmolar dehydration
  • a and b
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) delivers a concentrated glucose, lipid, electrolyte, and protein solution directly into a central vein, so its complications are largely metabolic and electrolyte related.

Step 2: The high dextrose load can outstrip insulin response and cause hyperglycemia, which is one of the most frequent metabolic problems. So option A is correct.

Step 3: TPN also drives a range of electrolyte disturbances, including hyperkalemia and hypokalemia depending on the formulation and the patient's renal status. So option B is also correct.

Step 4: Since both hyperglycemia and hyperkalemia are recognised complications, the best answer is option D, a and b. Other complications include azotemia, fluid overload, liver dysfunction, metabolic bone disease, and trace-element or vitamin deficiencies.
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