When should intermittent and TPN tubing be changed?

The correct choice indicates that intermittent and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) tubing should be changed every 24 hours. This practice is rooted in infection prevention strategies, as the risk of microbial contamination increases over time when tubing is left in place.

In the case of TPN, which involves delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream, maintaining sterile conditions is critical to avoiding healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Changing the tubing every 24 hours helps to minimize the risk of bacterial growth and ensures that the delivery system remains efficient and safe.

Monitoring the tubing for signs of contamination and following institutional protocols is essential, but the general guideline for the safe interval of changing these types of tubing is established at 24 hours to enhance patient safety and reduce the risk of complications.