Introduction. A number of diseases are associated with increased metabolism and thus a greater need for energy and nutrients. Patients may develop or worsen malnutrition. This has an adverse effect on the overall condition of the patient and on the course and effectiveness of the therapy provided. It may also increase the risk of complications. In such situations parenteral nutrition is often the only chance of survival.
Aim of the study. The aim of the study was to discuss selected issues in the field of parenteral nutrition in children.
Selection of materials. The search was conducted in the Scopus database for the period 2009-2020, using the terms parenteral nutrition in children. From the literature found in the Google Scholar database, studies were selected which, in the opinion of the authors, would be most useful in the preparation of this study.
Conclusions. Parenteral nutrition is currently a common form of treatment for sick children who cannot be fed through the digestive tract. Nutrition at home is a continuation of hospital treatment. For families of chronically ill children, nutrition at home is a major challenge, both in organisational and medical terms. Nutrition must be administered daily for several to several hours (cyclic supply) and in case of some children even for 18-22 hours (continuous supply).