Here's why:

* Parenteral means "relating to or by way of the skin or other tissues," and in this context, it specifically refers to routes of administration that bypass the digestive system.

* Enteral nutrition is the term for feeding through the gastrointestinal tract, using methods like nasogastric tubes or gastrostomy tubes.

Parenteral nutrition is typically delivered intravenously (IV) and provides all the necessary nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes, directly into the bloodstream. It's used when the digestive system is unable to adequately absorb nutrients, such as in cases of:

* Severe malnutrition

* Malabsorption disorders

* Gastrointestinal surgeries or injuries

* Comas

* Severe burns

Other terms that might be used to describe parenteral nutrition include:

* Total parenteral nutrition (TPN): This is a specialized form of parenteral nutrition that provides all the necessary nutrients.

* Peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN): This is a less concentrated form of parenteral nutrition that can be delivered through smaller peripheral veins.

It's important to remember that parenteral nutrition is a complex medical procedure that should only be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.