Which macronutrient typically provides the largest share of calories in PN for a stable infant?

Which macronutrient typically provides the largest share of calories in PN for a stable infant?

• A. Carbohydrate
• B. Water
• C. Fat
• D. Protein

Answer: (A)

Carbohydrate as glucose provides the largest share of calories in PN for a stable infant because it is the primary, most readily available energy source to support rapid growth and brain development. Delivering the bulk of energy as dextrose allows fats to be reserved for essential fatty acids and other lipid needs, while protein is aimed at tissue synthesis and growth rather than being the main energy source. In typical neonatal PN, you’ll see the majority of calories come from glucose, with fats supplying a substantial but smaller portion and protein contributing calories mainly for growth.

Carbohydrate as glucose provides the largest share of calories in PN for a stable infant because it is the primary, most readily available energy source to support rapid growth and brain development. Delivering the bulk of energy as dextrose allows fats to be reserved for essential fatty acids and other lipid needs, while protein is aimed at tissue synthesis and growth rather than being the main energy source. In typical neonatal PN, you’ll see the majority of calories come from glucose, with fats supplying a substantial but smaller portion and protein contributing calories mainly for growth.