An infusion pump delivers controlled amounts of fluids, nutrients, or medications directly into a patient’s body. These devices are widely used in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care environments. They ensure precise, consistent delivery of therapeutic substances, often over extended periods, which would be challenging to achieve manually.
Preparing for Use
Before operating an infusion pump, careful preparation ensures patient safety and effective medication delivery. Begin by gathering all required supplies, including the prescribed medication, appropriate tubing, syringes, and alcohol wipes. Proper hand hygiene, like handwashing or using an alcohol-based sanitizer, prevents contamination.
Next, verify the medication’s name, concentration, and dosage against the healthcare provider’s order. Inspect the infusion pump for any signs of damage, such as cracks or frayed power cords. Examine the administration tubing for kinks, blockages, or compromised packaging. If the medication requires mixing or loading into a specific syringe or bag, prepare it according to sterile technique guidelines and manufacturer instructions.
Operating the Infusion Pump
Operating an infusion pump involves several steps to initiate medication delivery. First, load the medication or fluid into the pump system. This involves inserting a pre-filled syringe into a syringe pump or connecting an IV bag to a volumetric pump’s tubing, ensuring secure, air-free connections.
After preparing the medication, connect the administration tubing to the patient’s access site. Once the tubing is securely connected, power on the infusion pump. Modern pumps feature a user-friendly interface, often with a touchscreen or numerical keypad, for programming.
Next, accurately program the pump with the correct infusion parameters. This includes the infusion rate and the total volume to be infused (VTBI). Some pumps require programming a specific duration. Always double-check these settings against the medication order to prevent errors.
Initiate the infusion by pressing the “start” or “run” button. Observe the pump’s display to confirm infusion has begun and fluid is flowing. Many pumps show the current flow rate and volume infused. Visually confirm that the fluid is moving through the tubing and into the patient’s access site.
Monitoring and Addressing Issues
Continuous monitoring during an infusion ensures patient well-being and pump functionality. Regularly assess the patient for comfort and any signs of adverse reactions to the medication, such as localized pain, swelling at the infusion site, or systemic symptoms like rash or breathing difficulty. Observe the integrity of the infusion site for redness, swelling, or leakage, which could indicate infiltration or phlebitis.
Infusion pumps are equipped with various alarms to alert users to problems. Common alarms include “occlusion,” which signals a blockage in the tubing due to a kink or clot. An “air in line” alarm indicates air bubbles within the tubing, requiring prompt removal. A “low battery” alarm suggests the pump needs charging or battery replacement.
When an alarm sounds, investigate the cause immediately. For an occlusion alarm, check the tubing for kinks, ensure clamps are open, and assess the patient’s access site for any issues. If air is detected, follow the pump’s instructions for clearing the line, often involving aspirating or flushing the line. If the issue cannot be easily resolved or if there is any uncertainty, contact a healthcare professional for guidance.
Safety and Post-Use Considerations
Adhere to safety guidelines throughout the infusion process. Never disregard pump alarms, as they indicate problems requiring immediate attention. Keep the infusion pump clean by wiping its exterior surfaces with manufacturer-recommended disinfectants. Proper storage when not in use maintains functionality and extends lifespan.
Once the prescribed infusion is complete, disconnect the administration tubing from the patient’s access site following sterile procedures. Dispose of all used supplies, including tubing, syringes, and needles, in designated biohazard containers to prevent injuries and contamination. If reusable, clean the pump thoroughly according to manufacturer’s instructions and store it in a safe, designated area. For questions or concerns regarding pump operation, medication effects, or patient reactions, always seek professional guidance from a healthcare provider.