Evaluation of IVAC Variable Pressure Volumetric Pump Model 560 for the delivery of red blood cells, adenine-saline added.
Mechanical pump systems for the delivery of intravenous solutions have been used for the transfusion of red blood cells. In this study, the IVAC Variable Pressure Volumetric Pump Model 560 was evaluated for that purpose using flow rates of 70 mL/hour and 999 mL/hour through 16-, 19-, and 23-gauge needles and an 18-gauge angiocatheter. The largest degree of hemolysis induced by the delivery system resulted in a mean increase of plasma hemoglobin of 150 mg/L (15 mg/dL); this is equivalent to the loss of 0.03% of the red blood cells. When programmed to deliver 15 mL of red blood cells, the IVAC 560 delivered 15.0 +/- 0.3 mL at a rate of 70 mL/hour and 14.9 +/- 0.3 mL at 999 mL/hour. The authors conclude that the IVAC 560 can be used to deliver red blood cells with a minimal, acceptable level of hemolysis. It also delivers an accurate and precise volume of red blood cells that may be an aid to the transfusionist.