Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) provides essential nutrients straight into your bloodstream. This form of intravenous feeding is used when you’re unable to obtain nutrition through eating or drinking. If you rely on TPN nutrition, traveling can present some unique challenges. With the proper preparation and planning, you can still enjoy trips and vacations while managing TPN therapy on the go. Follow these tips to help you travel smoothly when you need IV nutrition support.
Research Your Destination
Before booking any trip, do your homework on the place you’ll visit. Look into the availability of medical services and sterile facilities where you can safely administer TPN. For international travel, check that you can obtain the IV supplies and solutions in that country—research air travel rules about carrying medical liquids and equipment. Understanding the destination details in advance enables you to plan effectively.
Talk to Your Healthcare Team
Consult your doctor, home health nurse, or nutritionist for guidance on handling TPN while traveling. They can modify your infusion schedule as necessary to fit your travel days. Request documentation from them to present to airport security, detailing your medical equipment and fluids. Get their input on contingency plans for accessing TPN supplies or facilities at your destination in case of emergencies or issues.
Pack Smartly
Efficiently packing TPN gear protects your supplies and makes them easier to transport. Organize all pump parts, tubing, fluids, and other accessories in clear plastic bags. This allows quick inspection at security checkpoints. Bring backups of essential components if something breaks or gets lost. Separate liquids from electronics to prevent spills. Bring antimicrobial wipes and hand sanitizer to keep things sanitary.
Know Airport Security Rules
Call ahead to understand TSA regulations for your IV therapy equipment and accessories. Carry your solution bags and fluids in a dedicated cooler labeled with a note from your physician. Expect to go through additional screening. Be ready to explain your medical situation calmly and clearly. Arrive extra early in case examining your TPN items takes extra time. Patience and politeness will help airport personnel assist you respectfully.
Master Infusing on the Move
Learning to administer TPN in motion takes practice but provides freedom. Administer your infusion while on a plane, in a moving car, or during sightseeing. Utilize a compact, portable pump equipped with a battery pack. Carry a travel bag or backpack to store everything together neatly. Consider shipping supplies to your destination so you don’t have to transport them. Feel confident infusing in public by covering with a shawl or blanket.
Protect Your Supplies
Guard your TPN nutrition from extreme temperatures whenever traveling. Insulated coolers with frozen gel packs keep solutions at safe temps. When flying, wrap your bags in insulating layers and keep them in the cabin instead of checking them with your luggage. In hot climates, pack gear in a more significant insulated case. Don’t leave bags in hot vehicles. Monitor your infusion fluids and discard them if the color, consistency, or clarity changes.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough fluids is especially critical when you depend on TPN. Dehydration risks increase during active travel days. Sip water frequently on planes and throughout your day’s activities. Avoid excessive alcohol that can dehydrate. Since you can’t get hydration from TPN alone, make water your go-to beverage. Carry a refillable bottle so you always have access. Pick hotels with minifridges to have cold water handy.
Have Backup Facility Options
Despite meticulous planning, unexpected situations can still arise. Issues like pump malfunctions lost baggage with supplies, or accidents can disrupt your TPN routine. Research alternate infusion centers at your destination in case you need a backup. Travel with extra tubing and fluids that a facility might not have so you can still infuse. Build flexibility into your itinerary in case delays arise getting your TPN nutrition.
Traveling while dependent on TPN nutrition can seem daunting. But with adequate preparation and planning, you can still explore new places and partake in new experiences. These strategies help safeguard your infusion setup, supplies, and solutions while on the go. TPN can be managed smoothly during any travel excursion by involving your healthcare team, packing carefully, following rules, and having backups.
