What is the minimum percentage of energy that should come from IV fat emulsion in PN?

• A. 5%
• B. 10%
• C. 15%
• D. 20%

Answer: (B)

Providing fat calories in parenteral nutrition is essential not only for energy but to supply essential fatty acids required by the body’s cells and inflammatory systems. If the fat portion falls below a certain level, essential fatty acid deficiency can develop, with symptoms such as dry/scaling skin, poor wound healing, hair changes, and liver-related issues. To prevent this, guidelines specify that at least about 10% of total energy should come from IV fat emulsion. While many clinicians also target higher fat energy (often around 20–30%) to meet overall fatty acid needs and to reduce the carbohydrate load, 10% is the minimum necessary to avoid deficiency.