Hang time for breastmilk

dawngloves, BSN, RN · Sep 18, 2003

Three hours, pretty sure it's the same with HMF. We just changed our policy annd can't remember if EBM with HMF is only good for 3 or 4 hours now. :confused: I think that was the recommendation of Ross labs

prmenrs, RN · Sep 18, 2003

I think this is unit policy specific. Are you trying to write one?

Mira · Sep 18, 2003

That is a good point donnuchi because I have been attending breastfeeding study days but I have never heard how long can we hang breastmilk for continuous feeding.In my unit it is based on pure assumption that the length of time you can hang it on is the same time you can keep it at room temperature(max4hours-UK Association for Milk Banking,Apr.01)w or w/o fortifier.`Could be nice to have evidence-based practice.Try:http://www.lalecheleague.org

http://www.breastfeeding.org

http://www.breastfeedingonline.com

http://www.peach.ease.lsoft.com/archives/lactnet.html

http://www.ukamb.org

http://www.babyfriendly.org.uk :)

SheaTabRN · Sep 19, 2003

4 hours here... :)

Tiki_Torch · Sep 19, 2003

The first hospital I worked at would let it hang for 3 hours. When I find out the answer for the new hospital where I'm working now, I'll let you know. Wish I had some literature references for you... I'll keep an eye out for some...

NicuGal, MSN, RN · Sep 19, 2003

4 hours here...and we hang the syringe upside down so that when it separates, the fats go in :)

After adding fortifier, it is good for 8 hours in the container.

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · Sep 20, 2003

We do four hours as well. As for the fortifier, I just saw a flier about that at work; will make a copy and bring it home and type it for you (if it's relevant- I think it is) on Monday morning (have to work this weekend).

Mimi2RN, ASN, RN · Sep 21, 2003

We do four hours, too.

Mixed with fortifier, it can be stored up to 24 hours. Usually, it's a lot less than that. More like 8-12 hours.

Do other hospitals charge for the fortifier?

NICU_Nurse, BSN, RN · Sep 22, 2003

We don't.

kitty29 · Sep 24, 2003

We hang the brst milk for up to 4 hours, and when using the HMF it's ok for 12 hours. We also tilt the syringe up when delivering the milk.

No charge for the HMF it's a floor stock item.

pengland1965 · Sep 25, 2003

We hang BM for 4 hours with or without HMF. We hang prepared bottle formula 8 hours. If we have to mix the formula from powder or concentrate, or if we add any type of additives, then it only hangs for 4 hours. Our policy comes from infection control