Issues using level 1 rapid infuser

[NYCEDRN]

Those of you who use a level 1 rapid infuser. Has anyone had problems with fluids, in particular PRBCs emptying completely? Seems like when the infuser is used there tends to be 50% left of blood in the bag and it requires squeezing or placing the bag in a pressure bag. During massive transfusion emergencies it really becomes a problem. Seems like the blood bags my facility uses are not made of the infuser but blood bags are universal for the most part I assume.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

We no longer use the Level 1 at my facility, but if I recall correctly there were multiple hooks to use to hang what was being infused depending on the size of the fluid bag. I would double check that blood products, being smaller than the 1 liter saline bag, are being placed on the correct hook. I believe it’s actually within the chamber itself on the plastic door, not the one right at the top. Reaching out to the rep for inservicing is always a good option as well.