Alaris™ GP (Guardrails™) Volumetric Pump
Operating Precautions
BDDF00535
Issue 1
10/56
Operating Precautions
Infusion Sets
• To ensure correct and accurate operation, only use BD single use infusion sets described in this Directions
For Use .
• It is recommended that infusion sets are changed according to the instructions in the 'Changing the
Infusion Set' section . Carefully read the Directions For Use supplied with the infusion set prior to use .
• Use of non-specified infusion sets may impair the operation of the Pump and the accuracy of the infusion .
• When combining several apparatus and/or instruments with infusion sets and other tubing, for example
via a 3-way tap or multiple infusion, the performance of the Pump may be affected and should be
monitored closely .
• Uncontrolled flow may result if the infusion set is not properly isolated from the patient i .e . closing a tap in
the set or activating an in-line clamp / roller clamp .
• BD infusion sets are fitted with an in-line clamp, which can be used to occlude tubing in case it is required
to stop fluid flow .
• The Pump is a positive pressure pump, which should use infusion sets fitted with Luer lock fittings or
equivalent locking connectors .
• To infuse from a burette, close the roller clamp above the burette and open the clamp on the vent on top
of the burette .
• Discard infusion set if the packaging is not intact or the protector cap is detached . Ensure sets are not
kinked as this may occlude the tubing .
Using Collapsible bags, Glass Bottles & Semi Rigid containers
• It is recommended that the air vent be opened on the Pump sets if using glass bottles or semi-rigid
containers, to reduce the partial vacuum formed as the fluid is infused from the container . This action will
ensure the Pump can maintain volumetric accuracy whilst the container empties . The action of opening
the air vent for semi-rigid containers should take place after the spiking of the container and priming of
the drip chamber .
Steps for the Collapsible bags
Follow steps 1 to 3 as shown for the semi-rigid
containers, however do not open vent as in step
4, but prime the set as per step 5 . Ensure the
bag outlet is fully pierced before filling the drip
chamber .
Steps for Semi-rigid containers
4 .
5 .
3 .
2 .
Spike the
container
Fill drip
chamber to
fill line
Prime the set by
opening / closing the
roller clamp
1 .
Close the
roller clamp
Open the air vent
to allow pressure
equalisation - ready
for infusion
Operating Environment
• Intended environments include general wards, critical and intensive care, operating rooms, accident
and emergency rooms . The Pump may be used in an ambulance environment . Ensure that the Pump
is appropriately attached using the provided pole clamp . The Pump is designed to withstand possible
bumps and vibrations whilst being used in an ambulance, complying with the standard EN 1789 . If the
Pump is dropped or experiences any severe physical disturbances, arrange a thorough inspection by
Qualified Service Personnel as soon as is practically possible . The Pump may also be used outside the
ambulance as long as the temperature is within the specified range as stated in the 'Specifications' section
and on the Pump label .
• When using any infusion pump in conjunction with other pumps or devices requiring vascular access,
extra care is advised . Adverse delivery of medication or fluids can be caused by the substantial variation
in pressures created within the fluid channels of such pumps . Typical examples of those pumps are used
during dialysis, bypass or cardiac assist applications .
• The Pump is suitable for use in hospital and clinical environments other than domestic establishments
that have access to single phase AC power supply .
• This Pump is not intended to be used in the presence of a flammable anaesthetic mixture with air or
oxygen or nitrous oxide .
