Listen
Focus on listening to the number of beeps while programming IV pumps; each beep will correspond to a single digit entry. Unexpected double tone could indicate an unintended entry.

Verify Screen Display

When programming the pump or changing settings, always compare the patient's prescribed therapy or the medication administration record, original order, or bar code device to the displayed pump settings for verification before starting or re-starting the infusion.

Independent Double Check
Request an independent double check of pump settings by another practitioner before starting or changing infusions with hospital-selected high alert drugs.

Look
Before leaving the patient's room, observe the IV tubing drip chamber to see if the observed rate of infusion looks faster or slower than expected. Adjust accordingly.

Healthcare facilities can continue to use pumps in their possession, guided by these and further instructions.

For more information, check Alaris' Web site at: http://www.cardinalhealth.com/alaris/

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