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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses the “Proximal OCCLUSION B! Check Line B.” alarm, which indicates an upstream blockage in Line B. This condition stops infusion and prevents proper medication delivery.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- Stop the infusion immediately
- Assess the patient and therapy status
- Transfer infusion to another device if needed
2. Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm the alarm message is displayed
- Determine when the alarm occurs (startup or during infusion)
- Check if Line B infusion has stopped
- Look for additional alarms
3. Check Line B for Kinks or Closed Clamps
- Inspect tubing from fluid source to pump
- Look for kinks, compression, or pinched sections
- Ensure all clamps are fully open
4. Check Fluid Source
- Verify the fluid bag is not empty
- Ensure spike is fully inserted
- Confirm proper venting if required
5. Inspect Cassette and Pump Interface
- Open cassette door and inspect placement
- Ensure cassette is correctly seated
- Confirm tubing is properly loaded
- Close door securely
6. Attempt to Restart Line B
- Restart infusion after correcting any issues
- Observe for normal operation
7. Swap Administration Set
- Replace Line B tubing with a new set
- Test for resolution
8. Isolate Device vs Setup
- Test the set on another pump
- Use a known-good set on this pump
- Determine if issue follows tubing or pump
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out and the alarm continues:
- Remove the pump from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot occlusion alarms on an active patient. Always move the patient to a backup infusion device first.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Pump alarming 'Proximal OCCLUSION B! Check Line B' during infusion; Line B stopped."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Kinked Line B tubing upstream of pump causing flow restriction."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Straightened tubing and reopened clamp; verified infusion resumed without alarms."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Proximal occlusion alarms are most often caused by simple upstream restrictions. Start with tubing, clamps, and fluid source before escalating. Knowing when to remove a device from service is critical for patient safety.
That is successful troubleshooting.