This person has an infusion pump delivering Epoprostenol.
Never stop the pump.
Do not flush.
Do not alter dose.
Instructions for paramedics
Get patient to the nearest emergency department.
Inform emergency staff of patient’s condition and share this webpage with them.
Instructions for Emergency staff
This patient has an infusion pump delivering Epoprostenol continuously via a single lumen dedicated central venous catheter (CVC) which is tunnelled under the skin.
Critical care instructions
This infusion needs to be re-established immediately. (short half-life 4-6min)
Ask patient (if they are able) to re-establish the infusion. The patient should have a second pump with them.
Alternatively, ask patient’s trained Nominated Person for help with the infusion pump. Their phone number is on an emergency card that the patient carries in their wallet or infusion pouch.
Re-establish the infusion at the same rate/concentration using a hospital syringe driver. Patient may have a prescription with them detailing their Epoprostenol dose.
Re-establish the infusion immediately using a dedicated large bore peripheral access and insert a second as back-up.
Clamp central venous line when this is done.
Take peripheral blood cultures only.
Continue following local sepsis guidelines.
Contact Prof. Seán Gaine or Dr. Brian McCullagh at the Mater Hospital Dublin for further advice.
Take the pump out of the pouch, and ensure it is running by checking the screen.
Check drug cassette is attached to the pump and ensure there is drug visible.
Ensure all 3 clamps on the line are open. There are three: one on the central venous line and two on the infusion line.
Do not alter the dose of Epoprostenol.
The infusion pump is not MRI compatible.
Patient may need to be referred to the Mater Hospital Dublin if this test is required or contact Prof. Seán Gaine or Dr. Brian McCullagh for advice.
For further advice
Call Mater Hospital switchboard and ask for Respiratory Team Prof. Seán Gaine or Dr. Brian McCullagh