948
A P P E N D I X B
Parenteral agents
■■
TABLE B Parenterals (continued)
Component
Purpose
Availability
Special considerations
Typical peripheral parenteral nutrition solution
a,b,c
8.5% Amino
acids
Provides 41 g protein for
growth and healing
500 mL
Monitor blood pressure, cardiac output, blood
chemistries, urine to determine effect of
intravascular protein pull
20% Dextrose
Provides 1360 kilojoules
for energy
500 mL
Monitor blood sugar; evaluate injection site for
any sign of infection or irritation
Sodium chloride Provides sodium and
chloride needed for
various chemical
reactions within the body
40 mEq
Monitor cardiac rhythm, serum electrolytes
Calcium
gluconate
Provides essential calcium
for muscle contraction,
blood clotting, numerous
chemical reactions
4.8 mEq
Monitor cardiac rhythm, muscle strength, serum
electrolytes
Magnesium
sulphate
Provides magnesium
for various chemical
reactions within the body
8 mEq
Monitor blood pressure, deep tendon reflexes and
serum electrolytes
Potassium
phosphate
Provides needed
potassium for nerve
functioning, muscle
function contractions,
etc.
9 mmol
Monitor pulse, including rhythm, muscle function
and serum electrolytes
Multivitamins
Provide a combination
of essential vitamins to
maintain cell integrity,
promote healing, etc.
10 mL
Monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency or toxicity
Trace elements
Provide small amounts
of elements essential
for numerous chemical
reactions in the body
and maintenance of cell
integrity and healing
Periodically monitor blood chemistries to
determine adequacy of replacement
Zinc
3 mg
Copper
1.2 mg
Manganese
0.3 mg
Chromium
12 mcg
Selenium
12 mcg
a
Multiple combination preparations are available commercially. Each preparation varies in the concentration of one or more components and should be
checked carefully before hanging.
b
Actual concentration of solution and components of any particular solution will be determined by the assessment of the person’s current status and
nutritional needs.
c
Solutions used for peripheral therapy are usually less concentrated and less irritating to the vessel.
