How to Change IV Tubing?

Changing IV tubing is a necessary procedure to maintain patient safety and prevent infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on best practices:

Steps to Change IV Tubing

Here's how to change IV tubing:

1. Prepare the New Tubing:

   • Hang the new solution bag on the IV pole.
   • Compress and release the drip chamber on the new tubing.
   • Fill the drip chamber one-third to one-half full. (6)
   • Slowly open the roller clamp to begin priming the tubing.
   • Remove the protective cap from the adapter if needed.
   • Allow the solution to flow through the tubing, ensuring it is completely filled and free of air bubbles.
   • Stop the infusion and replace the cap.

2. Prepare for Tubing Exchange:

   • Gather all necessary supplies, including the new IV tubing, alcohol wipes, and gloves.
   • Wash your hands thoroughly and put on gloves.

3. Connect the New Tubing:

   • Close the roller clamp on the old IV tubing to stop the infusion.
   • Remove the old tubing from the IV access port, being careful not to touch the port.
   • Clean the IV access port with an alcohol wipe using a circular motion for at least 15 seconds.
   • Attach the primed new IV tubing to the cleaned IV access port.

4. Initiate Infusion:

   • Open the roller clamp on the new tubing to resume the infusion.
   • Check the drip rate to ensure it matches the prescribed rate.
   • Verify that the infusion is flowing smoothly and there are no leaks.

5. Dispose of Old Tubing:

   • Dispose of the old IV tubing in an appropriate biohazard container according to your institution's policies.
   • Remove your gloves and wash your hands again.

Practical Tips

• Always Maintain Aseptic Technique: Ensure that all connections and ports are cleaned with alcohol wipes before use.
• Minimize Air in the Tubing: Make sure to remove all air bubbles when priming the new tubing to avoid air embolism.
• Follow Institutional Guidelines: Different healthcare facilities may have slightly different protocols, so always check your organization’s procedures.
• Regular Inspections: Check tubing regularly for leaks, kinks, or signs of contamination.
• Timing of Tubing Changes: Adhere to recommended schedules for tubing changes, typically every 72 to 96 hours depending on the type of solution and institutional policy.

Step	Description
1. Prepare the new set	Ensure the drip chamber is filled one-third to one-half full and prime the tubing with solution.
2. Gather Supplies	Have all necessary items such as new tubing, alcohol wipes, and gloves ready.
3. Connect the new tubing	Stop the infusion, remove old tubing, clean the port with alcohol, and then attach the primed new tubing.
4. Initiate Infusion	Open the roller clamp to resume infusion and check the flow rate.
5. Dispose of Old Tubing	Discard used supplies safely per facility guidelines.

This detailed process ensures that changing IV tubing is done safely and effectively, following standard medical guidelines.