Guideline - Parenteral nutrition in the outpatient area

The implementation of parenteral nutrition in the outpatient area is hampered by numerous uncertainties. The doctor in private practice is often insufficiently familiar with the complex matter and turns to the prescription advice of the "Kassenarztliche Vereinigung". Typical questions about parenteral nutrition relate to the indication, the economical way of prescribing nutritional products, aids and bandages, and also home nursing care. It is therefore about evidence, but also about transparency and legal certainty in the use of three-chamber bags (60-70% of applications) and nutrition bags individually prepared through compounding (30-40% of applications). Answers to these questions are to be given in the following guidelines, which were created on behalf of the "Kassenarztliche Vereinigung" in Baden-Wurttemberg based on current S3 guidelines on the subject. The risks of an economy-based control model for home parenteral nutrition are discussed, since such a therapy specification can mean a possible restriction of patient comfort and patient safety. The guidelines offer the general practitioner an alternative orientation for the practical implementation of home parenteral nutrition, not only in Baden-Wurttemberg. Infusion therapies that meet the treatment criteria mentioned in these guidelines and whose indication, control and necessary duration can be proven for the patient through sufficient documentation are generally considered to be economical, the "Kassenarztliche Vereinigung Baden-Wurttemberg" says.