Published Jan 14, 2022
small_potato
25 Posts
I know the small air bubble in pre-filled syringes like clexane should be kept for injection. However, I have seen there is a big air bubble (>0.5ml) in certain pre-filled syringes like NESP, do I need to expel the air after connecting the needle?
Thanks.
Kmerc0341, BSN, RN, EMT-P
9 Posts
I see this all the time as well, but you can actually inject up to 3cc of air without causing harm to the pt-according to the experts. I’m not willing to test that theory and 0.5-0.75 really is in the upper echelon of my personal comfort level. I’d say use your personal judgment and if not comfortable, pull the plunger back and forth a few times or draw the med into a larger syringe to expel the air.
caffeinatednurse, BSN, RN
311 Posts
I always expel the air bubble before giving the med. Why take the risk?