Lecture Notes on Setting Up Alaris PCA System

Introduction to Alaris PCA System

• Purpose: Administrating primary fluids and PCA analgesia
• Components:
  • Alaris channel for primary fluids
  • Alaris key for PCA
  • PCA channel for syringe insertion
  • Monoject syringe from pharmacy (color-coded blue)

Preparing the PCA Setup

Initial Setup

• Primary Fluids Setup:
  • Primed with LR (Lactated Ringer's solution)
  • Ready through primary tubing

Preparing PCA Syringe

• Monoject Syringe:
  • Connect to the PCA syringe channel
  • Insert into PCA barrel by twisting

PCA Tubing

• Attachment:
  • Connect Monoject syringe to long end of PCA tubing
  • Ensure all PCA tubing clamps are engaged

Priming and Programming PCA

Priming Process

1. Connect Syringe to Tubing
2. Turn on the Pump
3. Open Plastic Case:
   • Use key from Pixus, turn counterclockwise
   • Insert syringe, aligning under the lip
   • Secure with plastic piece, lower clamps, and secure barrel
4. Prime Tubing:
   • Go to options, select 'prime set with syringe'
   • Unclamp tubing
   • Press hold to prime, stop automatically at 2 ml
   • Adjust if necessary to reach the Y port

Programming Infusion

• Select Options:
  • Confirm time
  • Select syringe type (Monoject 35)
  • Confirm drug (morphine)
  • Set PCA under specific order (e.g., under 65)
  • Confirm dosage: 5 mg/ml
  • Require second RN sign-off

Finalizing Infusion Setup

Priming PCA and Primary Fluids

• Additional Priming:
  • Attach primary fluids to another port
  • Release clamps to prime PCA tubing by gravity

Program Infusions

• PCA Dosage:
  • Dose: 1 mg
  • Lockout Interval: 10 minutes
  • Max Limit: 15 doses
  • Concentration: 5 mg/ml
• Primary Fluids:
  • Set basic infusion rate: 125 of 950 to be infused

Start Infusion

• Finalize Setup:
  • Ensure all doors are closed and locked
  • Press start for PCA and primary fluids infusion

Conclusion

• Operational Checks:
  • Ensure patient uses green button for PCA delivery
  • Return key to appropriate location