Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) involves giving high-calorie liquid nutrition through a tube (catheter) inserted into a large vein in the shoulder or neck. In a newborn, the catheter may be inserted into the artery in the umbilical cord.

TPN places nutrients needed for growth and tissue repair directly into the blood, bypassing the digestive tract completely.

A person's blood sugar and blood chemicals (such as electrolytes) are monitored while receiving this type of nourishment.