How to Use a Syringe Driver
A syringe driver is a medical device used to slowly pump out medicine in the desired dose and duration. The drug is administered through a needle that is inserted just below the skin. Most of the time you will encounter a syringe driver at a hospital, though in some cases people who are receiving medical care in their home will have a nurse set up a syringe driver. Syringe drivers should not be used unless supervised by a medical professional.
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Things You'll Need
- Syringe driver
- Luer lock syringe
- Prescribed medication
- Battery
- Film dressing
Instructions
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1
Insert the syringe into the vial of medicine. Invert the vial so it is upside down and pull the plunger back until the appropriate amount of medicine is drawn. For example, if the prescription calls for 60mm per 24 hours, pull the plunger back until the stopper is at the 60mm mark.
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2
Set the correct rate by adjusting the mm dial on the syringe driver. (See References for diagram.) The correct dosage, for example, 60mm should appear on the display. Adjust time dial to display the correct number of hours, for example, 24.
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3
Connect the prime line to the syringe by pushing the line over the end of the syringe.
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4
Open the cover on the back of the driver and insert the appropriate battery. An alarm should sound to indicate you have been successful.
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5
Hold the start/boost button, located on the front of the driver, for 8 seconds. Release the button after you hear an alarm.
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6
Confirm that the indicator light (located next to the hour display) is flashing. If it is not flashing, you need a new battery.
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Pull the actuator, located on the top of the driver, until it can't be pulled anymore. Lay the syringe horizontally on top of the driver. Press the white button on the actuator and slide it until it rests on the top of the syringe plunger.
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8
Use the rubber securing strap, on the top of the driver, to secure the syringe.
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9
Insert the cannula, the needle on the end of the prime line, subcutaneously in the upper chest or arm.
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10
Cover the area of insertion with film dressing.
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Tips & Warnings
Syringe drivers vary slightly from model to model---consult manufacturer's instructions specific to your model for best use.
Always use sterile equipment. A syringe driver must be supervised and operated by someone with appropriate training. Do not attempt to operate a syringe driver if you do not have the appropriate credentials.
