Re: Blood Administration

[Leigh Ann Bowe-geddes]

We routinely use 22g PIVs for blood. The crystalloid gravity flow rate through this catheter is 2100 cc/hr. The only limitation is if you need to rapidly run the blood (as in ER Trauma room, where a pt gets either a large bore PIV or a CVC). We use infusion pumps for most of our blood transfusions (exception is OR). On what data do you base your policy, and what are the nurses afraid will happen if they use a 22g? Leigh Ann   Leigh Ann Bowe-Geddes, RN, CRNI IV Therapy Specialist Infusion Services Department University of Louisville Hospital Louisville, KY 502-562-3530 >>> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 11/03/05 5:27 PM >>> I have an issue I would like some feedback on.   A patient arrived to our outpatient infusion center from the doctors office with a #22 catheter (in the hand) in place for a blood transfusion.  Our policy states that optimally an 18# G or larger should be used if possible.  The MD states that this catheter is fine to use in front of the patient, and the patient is now refusing another stick.  The nurses don't feel comfortable infusing blood products through the line, and feel that it is inappropriate. I know that in peds we used to infuse with #22,#24, but this was different volumes over different times.... Please advise. Lorelle Wuerz BS, RN Manager Infusion Services Robert Packer Hospital ----------------------------------------------------- Confidentiality Disclaimer This message, including any attachments, is confidential, intended only for the named recipient(s) and may contain information that is privileged or exempt from disclosure under applicable law, including PHI (Protected Health Information) covered under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996.  If you are not the intended recipient(s), you are notified that the dissemination, distribution, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited.  If you receive this message in error, or are not the named recipient(s), please notify the sender or contact the University of Louisville Health Care I.S. helpdesk at 502.562.3637 to report an inadvertently received message. -----------------------------------------------------