Protect From Light-Epinephrine infusions

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Julie Botsford
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Joined: 08/07/2009 - 10:54
Protect From Light-Epinephrine infusions

Two questions for group:
1. Do you require Protect From Light bag over epinephrine continuous infusions? (See recent ISMP Medication Safety Alert Feb 2024 Issue 3 and linked Hospital Pharmacy
2023, Vol. 58(5) 448–475 for discussion about addressing PFL during the different stages of medication processes.)

2. If you utilize PFL bags, has anyone found availability of ones that offer enough visibility to be able to read easily and see fluid volumes?

We have had two recent events in which epinephrine drips ran dry during transition between ED and ICU. Of course there were many variables involved including proper programming of VTBI in the pump, hand off communication, etc. The PFL bag certainly played a role in the visibility aspect. We currently utilize 5 mg/250 mL (20 mcg/mL) and are considering adding an additional double strength concentration. Both of these concentrations are listed in the ASHP standardize for safety document.

thanks in advance for your input!