Microbore tubing for transfusions??

Specialties NICU

Published

Does your NICU use microbore tubing for transfusions. Some feel there is a risk for hemolysis but i have never seen good data to support this. Any help appreciated

NW

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We use macrobore, though I really don't buy the hemolysis argument considering the size of the actual IV. I know when I worked adults we had to give blood through an 18 gauge IV to avoid hemolysis, but of course with neonates with give them blood through a 24 gauge so I am somewhat suspicious.

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Specializes in NICU.

We use the slightly thicker tubing for blood - we call it "anesthesia tubing" but it actually says "extension set" on the package.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, educator.

We use the 1ml microtubing and have never had a problem. We used to use the anethesia set, but the blood bank said there was too much blood wasted. Years ago we pushed blood thru a 26 guage and the micro tubing and spun a hct from that and the actual blood and the numbers were very close.

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