Metrohm has developed a method for the analysis of Total Parental Nutrition (TPN) solutions that are often administered to particularly vulnerable patients - for example, sick or newborn babies.
TPN is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract where the fluids are given into a vein to provide most of the necessary nutrients that the body needs.
Typical electrolytes within a TPN solution include acetate, chloride, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium.
Metrohm has developed methods for the analysis of anion and cation analytes within TPN solutions using Intelligent IC instruments.
Total Parental Nutrition solutions represent a challenging sample matrix and deliver a mixture of fluid, electrolytes, calories, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fats into an infant's vein.
Intelligent IC can be used to assay the anion and cation constituents, usually with analysis times of less than 20min, and the sample preparation is often no more complicated than a simple dilution.
The intuitive nature of the MagIC Net controlling software means that the instrument can be run and a result obtained by a technician with a couple of mouse clicks.
The electrolytes play a number of important roles within the body, including regulation of hydration, blood pH and nerve and muscle function.
Monitoring functionality and control charts within the software mean that the TPN assays can easily be profiled over a period of time.
Should values be outside of a strictly defined tolerance, then the user is immediately notified through the software so that remedial measures may be instigated.
