Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) Storage Tips for Hot Weather
General Medication Storage Tips
As the summer months approach, it’s important to ensure the safe storage of your Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) medications. HPN is a vital therapy that provides life-sustaining nutrition and hydration directly into the bloodstream, essential for patients with acute or chronic intestinal failure. Here are some key tips and reminders for storing your HPN medications during hot weather and what to do if your fridge stops working.
Non-refrigerated Medications
- Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your medications away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A cool, dry cupboard is ideal.
- Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your medication bags. If you notice any changes in colour, damage, or if you have any concerns, call us immediately on 0800 035 5678 for assistance.
- Follow Packaging Instructions: Each medication will have specific storage instructions on the packaging, typically advising to keep them below 25°C or 30°C. Always adhere to the medication guidelines.
Refrigerated Medications
- Minimise Fridge Door Opening: If the electricity goes out, keep the refrigerator door shut as much as possible to maintain the internal temperature.
- Monitor Fridge Temperature: Use both your fridge’s digital display and an internal thermometer placed between the medication bags to monitor the temperature. If the temperature rises above the recommended range, contact us.
What to Do If Your Fridge Stops Working
If you experience a fridge malfunction or power outage, follow these steps:
- Keep the Fridge Closed: This helps retain the cold temperature inside the fridge for as long as possible.
- Contact Us Immediately:
- During business hours (8 am to 6 pm), call 0800 035 5678.
- After hours, call our out-of-hours number on 0345 2636 115.
- Provide Key Information:
- Time the fridge alarmed, or power went off
- Temperature of the fridge when power come back on
- Temperature of fridge when alarming
- Time the power come back on
- Temperature of the bags in the fridge (put a Thermometer in between 2 bags for 20 minutes)
Our Response
Our on-call coordinators will work with our pharmacists to assess the situation. Based on the information provided, the pharmacist will determine if the medication bags are safe to use. Possible actions include:
- Using Current Bags: You may be advised to use a bag for that night and discard the rest.
- Arranging Replacements: We will arrange for new bags to be delivered to you promptly. This could include delivering room temperature bags for immediate use and refrigerated bags for subsequent infusions.
Preparing for Hot Weather
- Check Supplies: Ensure you have an internal fridge thermometer and check that it is functioning properly. If you need a new one, call us, and we will add it to your next delivery.
- Have as required (PRN) Medications Ready: Ensure you have as required medications on hand, especially IV fluids, in case of dehydration or other needs during hot weather.
Stay Informed and Prepared
We are committed to helping you manage your HPN safely at home. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Stay cool and stay safe this summer!
For more information or to request supplies, contact us at:
LloydsPharmacy Clinical Homecare
- Phone: 0800 035 5678
- Out-of-Hours: 0345 2636 115
By Mary Williamson, Lead Nurse – HPN & IV Therapies
