Objective To figure out the real experience of home parenteral nutrition(HPN) in patients with short bowel syndrome, to provide a basis for formulating an effective nursing intervention program. Methods Twelve patients with short bowel syndrome who received HPN therapy were selected by purposive sampling method.Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the data were analyzed by using the Colaizzi 7-step method. Results Three themes were extracted:positive experience of HPN (improved nutritional status, acquired family attachment, enhanced self-management awareness and ability enhancement); negative experiences of HPN (sleep disturbance, activity restriction, concomitant and/or potential complications, negative psychological emotions); demand for HPN (need for training and guidance of health care professionals, need for medical resources and policy support). Conclusion Medical staff should pay attention to the negative experience of patients and solve the problems in the process of HPN through effective interventions, so as to ensure the smooth and safe implementation of HPN.