On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting ICU Medical Colleague infusion pumps that trigger air-in-line (AIL) alarms despite a properly primed and free-flowing line. These false alarms are often caused by setup issues, sensor contamination, or tubing irregularities rather than actual air in the fluid path. Proper troubleshooting ensures patient safety and prevents unnecessary pump replacement or service calls.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Alarm Message and Behavior
- Check the pump display to confirm the AIL alarm type (occasional, continuous, or during specific infusion phases).
- Observe if the alarm clears when the line is temporarily paused or repositioned.
- Why: This helps distinguish between true air detection and intermittent sensor sensitivity.
Inspect Tubing and Connections
- Examine the entire infusion set for kinks, pinches, or loose connections.
- Ensure the tubing is correctly seated in the cassette and pressure sensors.
- Replace the tubing if any irregularities are noted.
- Why: Even small kinks or partial occlusions can trigger false AIL alarms.
Check for Air in Fluid Path
- Prime the line thoroughly according to manufacturer instructions.
- Ensure no residual air bubbles are trapped in the spike, drip chamber, or tubing.
- Why: A properly primed line eliminates true air as a cause before focusing on sensor issues.
Inspect the Cassette and Sensor Area
- Remove the cassette and check for fluid residue, debris, or misalignment on the AIL sensor.
- Clean the sensor area if needed with a manufacturer-approved cleaning wipe.
- Reinstall the cassette, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
- Why: Dirty or misaligned sensors frequently cause false alarms.
Test with a Known-Good Cassette
- If false alarms persist, swap in a verified working cassette to rule out cassette-specific sensor faults.
- Why: Confirms whether the issue is pump-based or cassette-based.
Observe Environmental Factors
- Ensure the pump is level and stable; excessive vibration can affect sensor readings.
- Confirm the fluid type and temperature are compatible with sensor specifications.
- Why: Some pumps may misinterpret high viscosity or temperature differences as air.
If the Problem Persists
After ruling out tubing, cassette, priming, and environmental causes, the false AIL alarms may be due to internal sensor or pump electronics issues.
- Remove the pump from service.
- Label it "Out of Service."
- Send it for bench evaluation or manufacturer repair.
- Remember: Knowing when to escalate is part of proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never troubleshoot an active infusion on a patient; move the patient to another pump first.
- Confirm that the line is free of air and securely connected before resuming therapy.
- Use a spare pump for ongoing infusions if available.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Pump keeps alarming air-in-line even though line is primed and flowing normally.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Observed tubing properly primed but AIL sensor contaminated with fluid residue; cassette slightly misaligned.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Cleaned sensor area, reseated cassette, replaced tubing if needed, confirmed alarm cleared. Pump returned to service.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Line fully primed
- Tubing checked for kinks/pinches
- Cassette replaced/tested
- Sensor cleaned
- Alarm behavior observed before/after intervention: Recorded
Final Thought
False air-in-line alarms can interrupt therapy and cause unnecessary alarm fatigue. Using a logical, stepwise approach focusing on tubing, cassettes, and sensor integrity ensures patient safety, avoids unnecessary repairs, and provides clear documentation for future reference.
That is successful troubleshooting.