Australasian society for parenteral and enteral nutrition (AuSPEN) adult vitamin guidelines for parenteral nutrition.

Background And Objectives: This work represents the second part of a progressive review of AuSPEN's 1999 Guidelines for Provision of Micronutrient Supplementation in adult patients receiving parenteral nutrition.

Methods And Study Design: A systematic literature review was undertaken and recommendations made based on the available evidence and with consideration to specific elements of the Australian and New Zealand (NZ) practice environment. The strength of evidence underpinning each recommendation was assessed. A multidisciplinary steering committee and external reviewers provided feedback on the guidelines.

Results: On review of the available literature it appears that the parenteral multivitamin preparations presently available in Australia and NZ are to sufficient avoid deficiency without causing toxicity in most clinical situations for adults receiving PN when provided regularly as part of the PN prescription. Vitamin D is the most vulnerable vitamin for the Australian and NZ PN population.

Conclusions: Vitamins are an essential component of PN and should be provided from commencement for all patients receiving PN. With the exception of vitamin D, which is recommended to be monitored annually, routine monitoring of vitamin levels is unlikely to be necessary in patients receiving regular parenteral multivitamin preparations. Clinical judgement is an important element when assessing, prescribing and monitoring patients receiving PN. Areas requiring further research have been identified.