This respiratory illness season, wearing a mask is required in patient and resident areas at Sunnybrook. Read our visitor guidelines »

PAGE
MENU

How to use the pump

Your nurse will set your pump to deliver the medication at a given rate, time and volume (amount). The pump will then be connected to your IV. Your nurse will tell you how long you will need to wear the pump. During this time you can go about your normal activities with care. The pump must always remain connected to you until it is completed, at which time a nurse will disconnect the pump.

You will have to purchase a carrying case for your AIP from the pharmacy on M –wing (6th floor) or T-wing (1st floor). You can use a carrying case of your own, like a fanny pack or a shoulder purse. If you use your own bag and are receiving Chemotherapy, we recommend that the bag be washed (separately) in the washing machine twice or thrown away after use.

Your nurse will go over instructions on how to take care of the pump and what to do in case of an emergency. These instructions are very important and are included in this booklet for you to review.

The pump has several safely features that will stop you from accidentally changing the settings. Your nurse will tell you which information is important for you to know.

How to turn the pump on and off

Turning the pump on and off yourself can be very dangerous as it can affect or change when the medicine is given to you. Please do NOT press the power button. The nurse will set the pump timer for you before you leave the hospital. Please check with your nurse if you have any questions.

How to stop and start the pump

Your pump will be started by the nurse at the hospital. Stopping or starting the pump on your own may lead to your medicine being given too early, too late or not at all. This can be very dangerous. Please do not press the stop or start button. Please check with your nurse if you have any questions.

What to do if the alarm comes on

Alarm message table
Message on the Display Screen What does this mean? What to do?
"Error"

There is a problem with the pump.

Call the hospital on the numbers listed on the last page of this booklet.

"LowBat" or "Battery Depleted"

The batteries are low.

“High Pressure” or “Occlusion”

The medicine is not getting through the tubing. There may be a bend or twist in the tubing or a clamp might be closed.
Check the tubing and make sure that all clamps are open. 

“Service Due”

The pump is still working, but you will need to come to the hospital to change the pump.

"Air in the line"

There is a pocket of air in the line.