Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition in Critical Care

Enteral nutrition delivers nutrients directly into a patient’s gastrointestinal tract, usually via a tube through the nose or directly into the stomach or intestines, suitable when the gut is functional. Parenteral nutrition provides nutrients directly into the bloodstream through an IV, bypassing the digestive system, used when the gut cannot be used effectively. Both methods are vital in critical care to ensure patients receive essential nutrients, support recovery, and maintain health when normal eating isn’t possible. The choice depends on the patient’s medical condition and the functionality of their digestive system.