Bottom line question to the group:

- has your institution reviewed and/or approved the usage of non-BD syringes for your smart infusion pumps?

More details below:

In the last few years, there have been recalls for both smart infusion pumps and syringes issued by the FDA. At our institution, our main smart infusion pump used is the BD Alaris system. Recently, BD Alaris pumps received full 510k FDA approval. These new pumps now have a more restrictive syringe and PCA compatibility list.

Do other facilities have a nursing protocol for basal rate titration of a PCA? Would appreciate any input as to why your facility does or does not allow this practice.

How do you handle transferring a patient on a PCA? Our nurses wanted me to ask as they are thinking of restricting the practice.

Our institution recently switched to BD/Alaris for most infusions-

We are running into some barriers with the PCA scanning process. All new PCA syringes are scanned via EPIC BCMA process, but we also find that RNs scan the physical syringe/label when assuming care of the infusion from the prior RN.

Because the PCA is enclosed behind the locked, clear plastic window, RNs are not able to scan the physical syringe or label without first obtaining the key and opening the PCA door. This poses a barrier in their workflow.

At your institution:

We are re-evaluating our lockout intervals for our PCA's as part of an Opioid Safety group. We currently use 8 minutes for all. Can you tell me your lockout intervals for PCA:
Morphine
Hydromorphone
Fentanyl

Thank you,
Ann Jankiewicz, PharmD, BCPS, FASHP
Medication Safety Officer
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago, IL