Why is access to telephone required in the home environment for a patient receiving parenteral nutrition?

• A. To contact healthcare personnel in an emergency
• B. To monitor infusion remotely
• C. To call for dietary tips
• D. To call the grocery store

Answer: (A)

Having a telephone at home is essential for someone on parenteral nutrition so they can quickly reach healthcare professionals in an emergency. PN is delivered through a central venous catheter, and problems can arise at any time—catheter infection, line dislodgement or occlusion, air embolism, or metabolic disturbances such as sudden hyperglycemia or electrolyte shifts. In these situations, rapid guidance from a clinician can prevent serious harm, determine whether urgent in-person care is needed, and provide instructions to safely manage the issue. While some programs may use remote monitoring or scheduled check-ins, the primary safety need is the ability to contact healthcare personnel promptly. Calling for dietary tips or contacting a grocery store do not address the urgent medical needs that can accompany home PN.