Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Why is parenteral hyperalimentation preferred over routine IV therapy for postoperative patients?

1. It provides protein supplements

2. IV fluid volume could surpass the body's fluid tolerance

3. It improves circulation

4. It eliminates the need for enteral feeding

The correct answer is: IV fluid volume could surpass the body's fluid tolerance

Parenteral hyperalimentation is preferred over routine IV therapy for postoperative patients primarily because it allows for tailored nutritional support in a controlled manner, avoiding the risk of fluid overload. In the postoperative context, patients often experience changes in fluid balance and tolerance due to surgical stress and recovery. Routine IV therapy typically focuses on hydration and electrolyte balance and may lead to excessive fluid administration, which can overwhelm the patient’s ability to handle the volume, especially when their body is already managing the stress of recovery. In contrast, parenteral hyperalimentation is specifically designed to provide essential nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, directly into the bloodstream while carefully managing fluid intake. This helps ensure that the patient receives adequate nutritional support without risking fluid overload, making it particularly valuable when enteral feeding is not feasible or sufficient. While factors such as providing protein supplements might contribute to overall nutrition, and the notion of improving circulation has its merit in certain contexts, they do not directly address the primary concern regarding fluid tolerance after surgery. Therefore, the focus on fluid management and preventing complications related to fluid overload is the key reason parenteral hyperalimentation is preferred.