Published
Depends on the equipment used by the facility. The newer pumps do not lyse cells because they count the drops with a sensor, not by pinching the tubing. The pump will also alarm when something is wrong so you have time to fix it and still get the blood in under 3-4 hours (RBC). We use both here. We LOVE the new smart pumps for blood. Nurses found they were being called back into the room far less often.
Only time I HAVEN'T used a pump with blood was when I was squeezing PRBCs for all I was worth to keep a pt with a GI bleed from dying....and that was scary. Doc was screaming "Squeeze it in!" and I was yelling, "not without checking the BAG!" -- We were hanging the second unit to go in the other arm as soon as we were done with the one I was swinging on. The patient lived thru that episode, and I grew some gray hair...
Mr.Fatback
1 Post
I am doing research. Let me rephrase that. I am trying really hard to find some research on the benefits of using gravity to infuse blood over using an infusion pump. I have read in numerous hospital policies that the use of an infusion pump is not allowed unless special circumstances call for the use of one. I have heard or read from multiple sources that the use of an infusion pump causes hemolysis and increases the risk of thrombus formation. I find it hard tho to find research to support this. Could someone please help me by submitting any articles you know of to support or deny this information.
Thank You