Is it OK to infuse mannitol that contains crystals?

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Mon, 02/08/2021 - 15:50
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Karen Thompson
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Joined: 05/03/2009 - 02:30
Is it OK to infuse mannitol that contains crystals?

We are having a tough time keeping our mannitol crystal-free here in Alaska... We have it in a warmer set at 104 F, but occasionally we have found ourselves with NO crystal-free mannitol in the hospital. I would never advise an RN to put the 20% mannitol bag into the blanket warmer for 1/2 hour, then let it cool just prior to administration. :-)
Is it OK to infuse even if there are some crystals present, since you are infusing it through an in-line filter? The bag labeling and the manufacturer say "No", but common sense tells me "Yes". Would you give staff the OK to infuse it with crystals?

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