ABSTRACT
Aim: To characterize publications about total parenteral nutrition by identifying the main complications presented by patients who underwent this therapy and describe the main nursing care for these patients. Method: An integrative literature review from 1995 to 2011; Databases: LILACS, SciELO and BDENF. Results: Final sample was composed of 19 articles. Discussion: The central venous catheter infection, liver disorders, lung disorders, thromboembolic events, extravasation during infusion of the solution and hematological disorders were the main complications presented by patients who received total parenteral nutrition. Nursing care were related to the control of central venous catheter infection, clinical management of patients with total parenteral nutrition and infusion control. Conclusion: The administration of total parenteral nutrition involves simple actions. The nurse must assume its role with the team, ensuring performance, instruction and training to promote effective service to patients. Descriptors: Nursing; Parenteral Nutrition, Total; Parenteral Nutrition.