Storing Unopened Jevity Containers
For Jevity that has not yet been opened, storage is straightforward. Unopened containers should be kept in a cool, dry place at room temperature. It is important to avoid extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, which can degrade the nutritional content and compromise the product's stability.
- Keep away from heat: Do not store Jevity in direct sunlight, near a radiator, or in a hot car. High temperatures can cause spoilage and nutrient breakdown.
- Protect from freezing: Freezing is also harmful, as it can cause irreversible physical changes to the formula's composition.
- Check the expiration date: Always inspect the use-by date on each container before storing. Old stock should be placed in front of newer stock to ensure a proper rotation (first-in, first-out).
Proper Handling and Refrigeration After Opening
Once a container of Jevity is opened, different rules apply to ensure safety. Enteral feeding formulas are excellent mediums for microbial growth, so strict hygienic practices are necessary.
- Wash hands: Before handling the container or feeding set, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the container top: Wipe down the top of the can or bottle with a clean cloth before opening to prevent contaminants from entering the formula.
- Refrigerate promptly: Any unused portion of the formula must be covered, refrigerated, and used within the specified timeframe. For most Jevity products, this is typically within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the specific product variant and how it is consumed. Check your specific product's label for exact instructions.
- Close the container: Reclose or cover the container tightly after each use to minimize exposure to air and prevent contamination.
Open System vs. Closed System Storage
For those who use Jevity via an enteral feeding tube, the type of system used for administration dictates storage rules.
| Feature | Open System (e.g., Cans, Cartons) | Closed System (Ready-to-Hang Bags) |
|---|---|---|
| Handling | Involves pouring from container into a feeding bag. Higher risk of contamination due to more handling. | Minimal handling required. Product is sterile and sealed. |
| Preparation | Requires pouring, which risks introduction of bacteria. | Bag is spiked and connected directly to the feeding set. |
| Hang Time | Once poured into a feeding bag, hang time is typically limited to 4 to 8 hours due to risk of bacterial growth. | The sealed system allows for a longer hang time, typically up to 24 to 48 hours depending on manufacturer guidelines. |
| Discard Protocol | Discard any formula remaining in the feeding bag after the specified hang time. Do not add fresh formula to old formula. | Discard the entire ready-to-hang container after its specified hang time, even if it is not empty. |
Safe Disposal of Unused Jevity
Proper disposal is just as important as proper storage to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and avoid potential cross-contamination. Unused formula that has been opened and exceeded its refrigeration or hang time must be discarded.
- Discard according to time limits: Pay close attention to the time limits for opened containers (24-48 hours in the refrigerator) and hang times (4-48 hours). Do not use formula beyond these limits.
- Do not mix new with old: Never pour fresh Jevity into a feeding bag that still contains formula from a previous feeding. This practice can introduce bacteria from the older feed into the fresh product.
- Properly rinse equipment: After each use, all feeding sets and reusable equipment must be thoroughly rinsed and cleaned. For continuous feeding systems, the set should be replaced every 24 hours.
Conclusion
Safe storage of Jevity is a critical component of nutritional support, whether for oral consumption or tube feeding. Key measures include storing unopened products at room temperature, refrigerating opened containers within 24 to 48 hours, and strictly adhering to recommended hang times for enteral feeding systems. By following these guidelines, you can significantly minimize the risk of microbial contamination and ensure the patient receives the full nutritional benefits of the formula.
For more detailed information, always consult the product's official label and the manufacturer's website, such as Abbott Nutrition. You should also work closely with a healthcare professional to ensure that all enteral feeding procedures are conducted according to the best practices for the patient's condition.
