When a hospital client must be fed through a vein, the duration should be as short as possible and real food should be reintroduced as early as possible.

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Feeding a patient through a vein, known as parenteral nutrition, bypasses the normal digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. It's used when a patient cannot consume food orally or via tube feeding. However, it's important to switch back to normal feeding methods as soon as possible to avoid complications associated with long-term parenteral nutrition, such as infections, liver problems, and nutrient imbalances. Reintroducing real food supports the normal digestive process and helps in maintaining gut health and function.

When a Hospital Client Must Be Fed Through a Vein