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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Error 222.4050 indicating excessive air-in-line, stopping infusion due to detected or falsely detected air in the IV tubing.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Stop the infusion immediately
- Clamp the IV line and assess the patient
- Transfer infusion to another pump if therapy must continue
Verify the Reported Error and Behavior
- Power on the pump and confirm Error 222.4050 is displayed
- Observe when the error occurs (startup, priming, or mid-infusion)
- Determine if infusion stops completely or intermittently
Inspect IV Fluid Source
- Ensure IV bag is not empty or near empty
- Verify proper venting if required
- Check for collapsed bags that may introduce air
Inspect IV Tubing for Air Bubbles
- Visually inspect tubing from bag to patient
- Check for air bubbles or gaps in fluid
- Inspect connections for looseness or damage
- Re-prime or replace tubing if air is present
Verify Proper Tubing Installation in Pump
- Ensure tubing is correctly seated in the air-in-line sensor channel
- Check for kinks, twists, or pinching
- Confirm use of BD-approved administration set
Check Air-in-Line Sensor Area
- Inspect for fluid residue, moisture, or debris
- Clean per approved procedure if contamination is present
- Allow sensor area to fully dry before retesting
Test with Known Good Setup
- Install new tubing and fluid source
- Prime properly and run a test infusion
- Monitor for recurrence of the error
Stop if Resolved
- If error clears, return pump to service
- Monitor briefly to confirm stable operation
If the Problem Persists
If Error 222.4050 continues after all external causes have been ruled out, this indicates a likely failure of the air-in-line detection system or safety circuitry.
- Remove the device from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot on an active patient. Always move the patient to a backup device before performing troubleshooting steps.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"BD Alaris pump displaying Error 222.4050, infusion stopping during use."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Air present in tubing or improperly seated set; possible air-in-line sensor issue."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed air, replaced administration set, retested. Removed from service and sent for repair when issue persisted."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Air-in-line alarms are critical safety protections. Always verify actual air presence first, but escalate quickly if the system falsely detects air to prevent delays in therapy.
That is successful troubleshooting.