Q: Who out there is using the Alaris/Carefusion 8000 Series IV pumps with the model 8100 pump-modules? I am curious to know if other users are having problems with the door hinges breaking on the modules?
A: McLeod Health has more than 1,300 Alaris (Carefusion) Model 8100 Pump Modules. The hinge areas on the doors of the 8100 and on its bezel assembly are a weak point. That said though, the Alaris 8100 pump modules are very easy to work on.
A: We have 1,434 of the 8100 units and the door hinges are definitely a weak point and constantly cracking. We bought the extended plastics protection program with the units which covers the parts, but when that runs out, we are likely going to be buying from Elite Biomedical Solutions. They use a higher grade of plastic for their parts.
A: I work out of Mount Sinai Hospital in N.Y. We have an Alaris system inventory of nearly 3,000 pieces (i.e. PC, modules). I have encountered some door hinge failures, however my major problem has been the IUI inter-connects and door latch assemblies. Right now, we’re in the process of replacing all of our IUI connectors because of repeated communication errors. These communications faults have caused the infusion pump modules to fail, while in use, causing patient incidents.
A: We got the pumps about two months ago and have the same problem. Also, we are getting error 800.8000.0 PCU15 general_OS_failure, Wi-Fi connection lost and, of course, the staff cannot find any modules.
A: You can use the CareFusion software to show at any given moment how many units are not in use. I used this when they started talking about not having enough units to prove we had way more than enough devices, they just were in the wrong place when needed and this forced nursing to take some ownership and come up with a process.
A: I hope all of you understand this is a reportable event. File a 3500 online at FDA.gov, Med Watch.
A: That has been one of the biggest problems for years. Cardinal Health will tell you it has to do with cleaning solution breaking down the plastic. In my opinion, they are just a weak link.
A: Yes, hinge breakage is a regular occurrence here at Johns Hopkins. We also have the problems with the IUIs, as we did at University of Maryland Medical Center. We find that the IV fluid drops down into the connector and shorts the leads. We haven’t figured out how to solve that problem. That’s our most frequent repair.
Q: I am looking for comments on the iLogic electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy system.
A: We have had our superDimension system for about a year now and have had zero problems. We signed a partnership agreement with the purchase that enables us to complete the PM/calibration on the system. Covidien was not part of Medtronic when we bought it. So, if the past is any indication, they will find a way to lock us out of doing any service to the unit or somehow make more money on service than Covidien was.
Medtronic has done this to us on several occasions. They buy a company that formerly did not charge for the consignment equipment if you bought their disposables, but then Medtronic bought them and changed the rules now wanting to charge us thousands of dollars a year for service on equipment we don’t even own. Negotiate your service strategy up front before you order your unit. The PMs are not difficult, but do take a little time. I would encourage you to try to support the unit using in-house biomed support if that option is still offered.