If you’re just getting used to the idea of using a dual chamber bag, take a deep breath and let us guide you through each step.
Because the two parts of your formula can’t be mixed until you’re ready to infuse, a dual chamber bag is divided into two parts to keep the fats you need separate from the rest of your PN formula. The two parts are called chambers and they’re separated by a divider — a metal rod and a rubber strip that fits into the rod. You need to infuse the bag shortly after mixing the two solutions.
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The milky, white fat solution is in the upper chamber of the bag.
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The clear protein and carbohydrate solution is in the bottom chamber.
When you receive your delivery
As you unpack your bags from the delivery box, look at each one closely to make sure that the rod and strip are securely in place. And check to see that the fat solution looks like milk without any streaks, and the solution in the lower chamber looks totally clear. If the solution in the bottom chamber looks murky or milky in any way, the divider may have been disturbed during shipping. If this happens, don’t use the bag and call us (Coram) to replace it. Save the bag for Coram to check when we deliver the new bag.
Storing your solutions
Refrigerate your bags as soon as you get your delivery. You can stack up to three bags on top of each other in your refrigerator. Don’t handle the bag dividers until you’re ready to use a bag.
Preparing your bag for infusing
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Take a bag from the refrigerator about two hours before you start your infusion.
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Just before your infusion, mix the two chambers by taking off the divider. Firmly grab one end of the rubber strip and pull to peel it off the rigid plastic rod. Then you should be able to take the metal part off easily. Throw away the strip and the plastic rod. The two chambers have now been combined into one bag.
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Hold the bag so it lays flat and gently rock it back and forth until the two solutions are mixed well.
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Once it’s mixed, you can add your medications to the bag as instructed by your doctor or nurse and begin your infusion.
Call your doctor or Coram care team if you have any questions about using your dual chamber bag.
Going somewhere? We can set you up with a rolling cooler to keep your PN solutions cool while you travel. Be sure to refrigerate your PN bags as soon as you reach your destination.
PN (Parenteral nutrition)
This information is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about your medical condition and prior to starting any new treatment. Coram assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided or for any diagnosis or treatment made as a result.
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