After assessing several clients, which would indicate a need for parenteral nutrition?

• A. A client with severe dehydration
• B. A client with severe malabsorption disorder
• C. A client with mild constipation
• D. A client with normal digestion

Answer: (B)

Parenteral nutrition is used when the digestive tract cannot supply enough nutrients to meet the body's needs, so nutrients are given directly into the bloodstream. In a severe malabsorption disorder, the gut can’t effectively absorb calories, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals from food or oral/enteral feeds. Delivering these nutrients intravenously allows the body to receive what it needs without relying on impaired absorption, which is why this scenario most clearly indicates the need for parenteral nutrition.

Severe dehydration is addressed with fluids and electrolyte management rather than supplying nutrients through IV feeding. Mild constipation isn’t about nutrient absorption, and normal digestion means the gut is functioning well enough to meet nutritional needs, so parenteral nutrition isn’t indicated.