PROCEDURE CHECKLIST

Chapter 36: Setting Up and Using IV Pumps

Check (9) Yes or No

PROCEDURE STEPS Yes No COMMENTS

1. Calculates the hourly infusion rate by dividing the
volume to be infused by the number of hours it is to be
infused.
2. Verifies the calculation.
3. Attaches the IV pump to the IV pole and plugs it in
to the nearest electrical outlet.
4. Takes the administration set from the package;
labels the tubing with the date and time.
5. Closes the clamp on the administration set.
6. Removes the protective covers and spikes the port
of the solution container with the administration set.
7. Hangs the IV solution container on the IV pole.
8. Compresses the drip chamber of the administration
set and allows it to fill up halfway.
9. Places the electronic eye on the drip chamber
between the fluid level and the origin of the drop (if
there is no electronic eye, consults the manufacturers
instructions for setup).
10. If a filter is required, attaches it to the end of the
administration set.
11. Primes the administration set with fluid by opening
the roller clamp and allowing the fluid to flow slowly
through the tubing. Closes the clamp.
12. Inspects the tubing for the presence of air. If air
bubbles remain in the tubing, flicks the tubing with a
fingernail to mobilize the bubbles.
13. Turns on the IV pump and loads the administration
tubing into the pump according to manufacturer’s
instructions.
14. Programs the pump with the prescribed infusion
rate (hourly rate) and the volume to be infused (usually
the total amount in the IV bag).
15. Applies procedure gloves and connects the
administration set adapter to the IV catheter.
16. Unclamps the administration set tubing (opens
roller clamp all the way) and presses the “start” button
on the pump.
17. Ensures that all alarms are turned on and audible.
18. Checks the pump hourly to make sure the correct
volume is infusion.

Copyright © 2007, F. A. Davis Company, Wilkinson & Van Leuven/Procedure Checklists for Fundamentals of Nursing
19. At end of shift (or at the time specified by the
agency), clears the pump of the volume infused and
records the volume on the I&O form.

Recommendation: Pass ______ Needs more practice ______

Student: Date:

Instructor: Date:

Copyright © 2007, F. A. Davis Company, Wilkinson & Van Leuven/Procedure Checklists for Fundamentals of Nursing