What is an IV feeding tube? Understanding parenteral nutrition
                                
                                
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                                    6 min read                                
                            
                                Intravenous (IV) nutrition, also known as parenteral nutrition, is used for patients who cannot use their gastrointestinal (GI) tract to absorb food. A common point of confusion exists between this method and a traditional feeding tube, which utilizes the digestive system. This article clarifies what is an IV feeding tube and distinguishes it from other nutritional support methods.