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Heska Pump – IV Line Placement Issues

Updated

Troubleshooting Guide: Heska Vet/IV 2.2 Pumps – IV Line Placement Issues

Summary:
One of the most common issues with Heska Vet/IV 2.2 pumps is improper placement of the IV line in the channel. If the line is not seated correctly when the door is closed, the pump can deliver fluid incorrectly, sometimes appearing to “bolus” the patient unexpectedly. This article explains how to identify, prevent, and resolve this issue.

Symptoms

  • Pump appears to bolus patient when set at a low rate (e.g., 13 mL/hr).

  • Infusion volume delivered does not match programmed settings.

  • Pump runs but volume infused (VI) is inaccurate.

  • Alarms do not trigger, but patient receives fluid faster than intended.

Quick Checks

  1.  Line Placement

    • Open the pump door and check that the IV line is seated properly in the channel.

    • Ensure the tubing is aligned and not twisted.

    • Re-close the door firmly until it clicks.

  2.  IV Set

    • Confirm the use of a Baxter IV set (the only type compatible with these pumps).

    • Reload the set if there is any doubt about placement.

  3.  Pump Cleanliness

    • Check for dirt or dried fluids on the pump door and channel area.

    • Clean with hospital-approved disinfectant wipes if needed.

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Advanced Steps

If the pump continues to behave abnormally after reseating the line:

  • Reprogram & Retest

    • Cancel the infusion, re-enter the settings, and restart.

    • Observe for at least 5 minutes to ensure infusion is running at correct rate.

  • Verify Accuracy

    • Run a 100 mL test infusion and confirm recorded volume matches delivered volume.

  • Escalate if Unresolved

    • If problem repeats, remove from service.

📖 See detailed troubleshooting in manual:

  • [Operator’s Manual – S Drive](\sovsc.local\S Drive\Equipment Manuals\Heska\VetIV2.2_Manual.pdf)

  • [Service Manual – S Drive](\sovsc.local\S Drive\Equipment Manuals\Heska\VetIV2.2_Service.pdf)

Escalate If

Escalate to Facility/IT if:

  • Pump continues to infuse at incorrect rates despite correct line placement.

  • Pump records inaccurate volumes after multiple tests.

  • Pump door or channel is damaged or does not close securely.

References & Resources

  • [Heska Vet/IV 2.2 Operator’s Manual (S Drive)](\sovsc.local\S Drive\Equipment Manuals\Heska\VetIV2.2_Manual.pdf)

  • [Heska Service Guide (S Drive)](\sovsc.local\S Drive\Equipment Manuals\Heska\VetIV2.2_Service.pdf)

  • Vendor Support: Heska Technical Support (1-800-464-3752)

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