Complete solutions for enteral and parenteral nutrition...
Nutrition is neccessary for life. There are times, however,
when one cannot take sufficient nourishment orally
because of illness or injury. The stomach or bowel may not
function correctly or parts, or all, of the organs involved in
processing food may have been removed to arrest a
disease. Under these circumstances, complete nutrition
can be provided Enteral or Parenteral nutrition may be 
necessary.
Parenteral (pah REN ter ul) Nutrition is a special formula of essential nutritional elements administered intravenously (directly into the blood stream) using a portable or stationary infusion pump. Portable infusion pumps allow persons otherwise ambulatory to remain so while receiving the infusion.
Parenteral nutrition mixtures contain all the protein, sugars, fat, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed. The formula is determined according to individual needs and is compounded in a special sterile environment by our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
Patients are monitored by our clinical team and adjustments are made to the formula when required. Parenteral nutrition is sometimes refered to as total parenteral nutrition, or TPN, and may also be refered to as hyperalimentation.
Enteral (EN ter al) Nutrition is another means
of delivering required 
nutrition. If sufficient
nutrients cannot be consumed orally, for example when the
swallowing reflex fails due to illness or injury, fluids
containing the necessary elements can be administered via a
tube. Enteral nutrition is, in fact, sometimes referred
to as 'tube feeding'. Enteral nutrition is a mixture of all the needed
nutrients. It is thicker than parenteral nutrition and
sometimes it looks like a milk shake. It is given through a
tube in the stomach or small intestine.
If you need more information about these special ways to receive food, ask your health care provider.
Enteral nutrition fluids can be administered by pump, gravity
or
syringe methods depending on the specific needs of the
patient. Unlike parenteral nutrition compounds, enteral
nutrition formula is delivered directly to the stomach or small
intestine. 
HomeCare I.V. of Bend, Inc provides parenteral and enteral nutrition fluids, all necessary supplies and equipment, and supports the patient and caregiver twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
For additional information visit the web site of the Oley Foundation. Founded in 1983, the Oley Foundation provides information and psychosocial support to consumers dependent upon home parenteral (IV) and enteral (tube-fed) nutrition, helping them live fuller, richer lives. All services are free of charge to consumers and their families.
HomeCare I.V. of Bend, Inc. has earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval™
