Tips to Thrive

April 2014

(vol. 7, #4)

ThriveRx is a national nutrition support company providing support for individuals on Parenteral and/or Enteral Nutrition at home.  Our foundation is based on Customized Care, Clinical Excellence and Consumer Advocacy.  At ThriveRx, our mission is to provide quality care and education that fosters independence and empowers consumers and their families.  As part of this initiative, our consumer friends will receive our monthly Tips to Thrive mailer.

Frequently Asked Questions: TPN Storage

As a home Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) consumer or caregiver, there are a variety of things to keep in mind to ensure the safety of your infusions. One critical factor is making sure that TPN bags are shipped and stored safely and at the correct temperature. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding proper storage and appropriate temperatures for your TPN at home.

Where is the best place to store my TPN?

Answer: The best place to store your TPN is in a reliable refrigerator that does 

Answer: The ideal temperature for storing TPN is between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit. 

How long is TPN good for at room temperature? 

Answer: 24 hours 

You send us our TPN overnight. How do you keep it cold during shipping?

Answer: We ensure that your TPN is kept at the proper temperature by using slow-melt ice packs in the shipment. We also perform testing by shipping boxes with thermometers that track temperature changes to ensure that our process is effective.   

Is my TPN still okay if the cold packs are thawed?

Answer: It is normal for the ice packs to melt partially or completely during the shipping process. If the TPN is kept cool, it is fine to use.  

What happens if my TPN gets too warm?

Answer: TPN can become unstable if stored too warm. It also could become a better environment for bacteria to grow IF a contamination were to occur.  

Can I use TPN that has frozen?

Answer: TPN can also become unstable if it has frozen and it should not be used.

What are people saying about ThriveRx: 

"The support and education provided by your company is priceless. I went from fearing life to actually living it, thank you."                   -Stephanie

ThriveRx Upcoming Consumer Events

Title: CVL Care: Best Practices and New Products 

Join us for a review of Central Venous Line (CVL) care and best practices.  We will also review new products that are on the market for CVL care and maintenance.

Presenter: Kristi Cole-Griggs, RN, BSN ThriveRx Nutrition Liaison