4
CARE OF THE SIMULATOR
GENERAL CARE AND USE OF THE ARM
The usable life of the skin and tubing will vary depending on such factors as the size of the needles
used, distribution of the punctures, and the general care and use of the arm. Below are some sug-
gestions for use and care of the
Life
/
form
®
Arterial Puncture Arm Simulator which will help prolong
the useful life of the skin and simulated arteries.
1.
Needles
A hypodermic needle is actually a very small cutting tool. Puncturing the skin and artery with
needles forms slits or cuts which will eventually lead to deterioration. The larger the needle,
the larger the cut made in the skin and tubing. Use of 22-gauge or smaller needle is recom-
mended. Always use sharp needles; dull or blunt needles cause unnecessary damage.
2.
Distribution of Punctures
If the injections can be distributed along the length of the injection sites without deviation
from acceptable practice, the product will last longer.
3.
Height of the IV Bag
Fluid pressure increases as the height of the bag increases. A height of 18" above the arm
provides a realistic “flashback.” Elevating the bag higher raises the pressure and will cause
additional leakage through previous puncture holes.
4.
IV Solutions
Use only water or
Life
/
form
®
Arterial Blood. Use of other solutions may block the tubing.
5.
Site Preparation
Clean water is recommended for swabbing injection sites and will help lubricate the skin
surface to minimize damage from punctures. Alcohol, iodine, or other antiseptics are not
recommended, as they will stain the skin permanently.
6.
Cleaning
Use a mild solution of Ivory® liquid detergent and water to clean the surface of the skin. Use
Nasco Cleaner (LF09919U) to remove stubborn stains from the simulator. Simply apply to
the soiled area and wipe clean with soft cloth or paper towels.
STORING THE SIMULATOR
1.
Disconnect the fluid supply bag, making sure the clamp is closed. Place the tubing end in the
pint bottle and open the clamp to drain; rinse bag.
2.
Open the pinch clamp and drain the arm. Tip the hand up until the fluid is removed. Always
flush the tubing with water after use. Rinse the exterior with water and dry it with a soft cloth
or paper towel. Place the arm in the storage bag. Store the arm in the carrying case.
REPAIR OF TUBING PUNCTURES
1.
Due to the thin wall of the tubing and the pressure of the pulsation of the arterial system,
leakage is likely after repeated punctures. Additional replacement latex tubing sections are
included with the simulator to renew the arterial system. Refer to the instructions for skin
replacement.
2.
Tubing Sealant (LF01099U) is included with the product and will significantly reduce leakage
of tubing when applied regularly. Always flush the tubing with water before attempting the
sealing procedure. See the instructions on the container.
4
CARE OF THE SIMULATOR
GENERAL CARE AND USE OF THE ARM
The usable life of the skin and tubing will vary depending on such factors as the size of the needles
used, distribution of the punctures, and the general care and use of the arm. Below are some sug-
gestions for use and care of the
Life
/
form
®
Arterial Puncture Arm Simulator which will help prolong
the useful life of the skin and simulated arteries.
1.
Needles
A hypodermic needle is actually a very small cutting tool. Puncturing the skin and artery with
needles forms slits or cuts which will eventually lead to deterioration. The larger the needle,
the larger the cut made in the skin and tubing. Use of 22-gauge or smaller needle is recom-
mended. Always use sharp needles; dull or blunt needles cause unnecessary damage.
2.
Distribution of Punctures
If the injections can be distributed along the length of the injection sites without deviation
from acceptable practice, the product will last longer.
3.
Height of the IV Bag
Fluid pressure increases as the height of the bag increases. A height of 18" above the arm
provides a realistic “flashback.” Elevating the bag higher raises the pressure and will cause
additional leakage through previous puncture holes.
4.
IV Solutions
Use only water or
Life
/
form
®
Arterial Blood. Use of other solutions may block the tubing.
5.
Site Preparation
Clean water is recommended for swabbing injection sites and will help lubricate the skin
surface to minimize damage from punctures. Alcohol, iodine, or other antiseptics are not
recommended, as they will stain the skin permanently.
6.
Cleaning
Use a mild solution of Ivory® liquid detergent and water to clean the surface of the skin. Use
Nasco Cleaner (LF09919U) to remove stubborn stains from the simulator. Simply apply to
the soiled area and wipe clean with soft cloth or paper towels.
STORING THE SIMULATOR
1.
Disconnect the fluid supply bag, making sure the clamp is closed. Place the tubing end in the
pint bottle and open the clamp to drain; rinse bag.
2.
Open the pinch clamp and drain the arm. Tip the hand up until the fluid is removed. Always
flush the tubing with water after use. Rinse the exterior with water and dry it with a soft cloth
or paper towel. Place the arm in the storage bag. Store the arm in the carrying case.
REPAIR OF TUBING PUNCTURES
1.
Due to the thin wall of the tubing and the pressure of the pulsation of the arterial system,
leakage is likely after repeated punctures. Additional replacement latex tubing sections are
included with the simulator to renew the arterial system. Refer to the instructions for skin
replacement.
2.
Tubing Sealant (LF01099U) is included with the product and will significantly reduce leakage
of tubing when applied regularly. Always flush the tubing with water before attempting the
sealing procedure. See the instructions on the container.
HC18000028INM17_for spiral.indd 7-8
10/8/18 8:25 AM
