Hi everyone! My unit has recently changed to the fiberoptic version of the datascope IABP. We all remember being told in the inservice that there is no need to flush with the fiberoptic, but none of us can remember why. We checked the website and have found nothing. Also, the new IABP are still coming up with a pressure bag attached. Why is this if we are not needed to flush? Thanks a lot!

I'd call the rep (there should be an 800 number, staffed 24/7, for tech support) to clarify what you all remember.
Perhaps just one flushing step is no longer needed, but think flushing is required any time there is a catheter in the body.

Found this on the web, it might be useful:

http://www.grandstrandmed.com/CPM/Ci...inton_IABP.pdf

I will preface by saying I am more familiar with the Arrow than the Datascope.

What you don't need to do with the fiberoptic is the zeroing of the manual transducer. You zero the fiberoptic to atmospheric pressure before insertion and it then recalibrates every 2 hours (if you're using the CS300).

As far as I know you still need the pressure bag and flush for the arterial lumen.

We recently changed as well, and the new IABPs have a side port which requires a flush bag. Because the new fiberoptic cable does not require fluid in order to measure a BP, a flush bag is not needed.

Hang on, so you do or don't? Or are you saying the arterial port doesn't? You need the flush bag to offset the arterial pressure, not to measure pressure, right?

Our unit is also using these IABPs my understanding of continued need for the flush bag was to prevent clots from forming on the tip of the fiber optic cable which would dampen the arterial waveform. They still recommend a good 15 second flush every so often.