Celebrate National Food Safety Education Month this September by encouraging your tube-fed patients to follow these safe practices for tube feeding:
1. Wash your hands before handling all formula equipment and supplies
2. Store unopened formula in a cool, dry area
3. Refrigerate leftover formula and discard after 24 hours
4. Follow the formula hang time guidelines listed below:
4 hours:
Non-sterile powdered formula and human milk
8 hours:
Sterile formula in an open system in a health care facility
12 hours:
Sterile formula in an open system at home
24-28 hours:
Sterile formula in a closed system
This article is is tended for educational use only and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your enteral nutrition, contact your healthcare provider.
