Alternative NamesIV fluids - infants; TPN - infants; Intravenous fluids - infants; Hyperalimentation - infantsInformationTotal parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. Fluids are given into a vein to provide most of the necessary nutrients the body needs. The method is used when a person cannot or should not receive feedings or fluids by mouth.Sick or premature newborns may be given TPN before starting other feedings or when they cannot absorb nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract for a long time. TPN delivers a mixture of fluid, electrolytes, calories, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and often fats into an infant's vein. TPN can be lifesaving for very small or very sick babies. It can provide a better level of nutrition than regul