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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Proximal AIR Line B alarm causing infusion to stop due to detected air in Line B near the pump cassette, preventing safe medication delivery.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Stop the infusion immediately
- Transition the patient to another infusion pump if therapy is required
- Do not resume infusion until air is fully cleared
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm alarm message: “Proximal AIR Line B! Backprime.”
- Observe when the alarm occurs (startup or during infusion)
- Check if Line B is stopped while Line A may still function
- Look for visible air bubbles near the cassette
Inspect Line B for Visible Air (Most Common Cause)
- Trace tubing from fluid source to cassette
- Look for air bubbles in tubing
- Ensure drip chamber is at least half full
- Check all connections for looseness
Check Fluid Source and Spike Connection
- Ensure IV bag is not empty or near empty
- Verify spike is fully inserted and secure
- Check for collapsed bags or venting issues
Backprime Line B (Manufacturer-Directed Step)
- Open cassette door
- Clear program if required
- Initiate backprime to remove air
Reinstall Cassette and Restart Infusion
- Close cassette door securely
- Reprogram infusion if needed
- Restart Line B
Swap Administration Set if Issue Persists
- Replace entire Line B administration set
- Ensure proper priming before installation
If the Problem Persists
If air alarms continue after clearing, repriming, and replacing the set, internal air detection or cassette interface issues may be present.
- Remove device from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot or clear air alarms while connected to a patient. Always move the patient to a backup device before continuing.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Proximal AIR Line B! Backprime alarm triggered and infusion stopped on Line B."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Air present in proximal Line B tubing due to incomplete priming and low fluid level in drip chamber."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Backprimed Line B, removed air, verified fluid source, and restarted infusion without further alarms."
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 should always be treated as real hazards. Start with simple external causes like fluid source and priming, and escalate if necessary to protect patient safety.
That is successful troubleshooting.