Why does the BNF recommend a 24-hour expiry for drug additions to intravenous infusions not made in aseptic units?
The BNF advice on additions to intravenous infusions that are not made in an aseptic unit is based on popular opinion. The period of 24 hours is arbitrary; it represents a compromise between what is practical and what is safe. The BNF takes the view that the microbial hazard increases if the infusion fluid to which the additive has been made on the ward is stored much longer than 24 hours. As far as we know there is no evidence to indicate what might be a safe cut-off period; in the absence of such evidence, the BNF has provided an expert opinion. Obviously, rates of contamination when additions are made on the ward will depend on factors such as technique, equipment, and training.
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