What type of fluid can be administered through an umbilical venous catheter?

An umbilical venous catheter (UVC) is designed to provide access to the circulatory system of neonates for the administration of various types of fluids, and option C highlights two primary uses for this type of catheter: Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) and medications.

One of the key roles of a UVC is to facilitate nutritional support, particularly in premature infants or those who cannot take feeds orally. TPN—which includes essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals—can be directly infused into the bloodstream through a UVC, ensuring that the neonate receives appropriate nutrition while bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

Additionally, a UVC can be used to administer various medications, allowing for rapid delivery into the systemic circulation, which is crucial for the management of different medical conditions commonly faced by neonates. This dual capability makes the UVC a vital tool in neonatal care.

While other options may contain aspects of potential fluid administration, they do not capture the full range of capabilities afforded by the UVC. Therefore, recognizing that TPN and medications can be effectively delivered through an umbilical venous catheter underscores the versatility and importance of this vascular access method in neonatal medicine.