In parenteral nutrition calculations, dextrose in solution provides approximately how many kilocalories per gram?

• A. 4 kcal/g
• B. 3.4 kcal/g
• C. 9 kcal/g
• D. 1 kcal/g

Answer: (B)

In parenteral nutrition calculations, each macronutrient has a standard energy value used to determine total calories. Dextrose (glucose) is counted as about 3.4 kilocalories per gram, reflecting the energy yield when glucose is delivered intravenously. This value is used instead of 4 kcal/g for carbohydrates in dietary contexts because PN energy factors are based on typical metabolic and formulation considerations for IV glucose. Therefore, dextrose provides roughly 3.4 kcal per gram in PN calculations. For example, 60 g of dextrose would contribute about 204 kcal (60 × 3.4).