Who is the most appropriate candidate for parenteral nutrition?

The most appropriate candidate for parenteral nutrition is a middle-aged woman who will begin chemotherapy due to her potential inability to meet her nutritional needs through oral or enteral routes. Chemotherapy can often cause severe nausea, vomiting, mucositis, and other gastrointestinal complications, making it difficult for patients to consume adequate food or absorb nutrients effectively. In such instances, parenteral nutrition becomes essential because it delivers nutrients directly into the bloodstream, ensuring that the patient receives the necessary calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals required to maintain body functions and support recovery during treatment.

In contrast, the other candidates may have alternative methods for meeting their nutritional needs. The young athlete likely has no immediate contraindications for oral intake and may just need to adjust caloric intake based on their activity level. The pregnant teenager might require a nutritious diet to support fetal development but is generally capable of meeting her needs through food unless there are specific health issues. The elderly man undergoing surgery may need nutrition support as well, but if he is able to eat or be provided enteral nutrition pre- or post-surgery, parenteral nutrition may not be the first approach considered. Overall, the context of chemotherapy and its side effects positions the middle-aged woman as the most suitable candidate for