Objectives: to obtain information from scientific literature concerning infusion pumps used
in administering erythrocyte (red blood cells) and to evaluate the implications in
the practical use of this equipment by nurses when conducting transfusions.Method: an integrative revision of the following scientific databases: Pubmed/Medline,
Scopus, the Virtual Library for Health, SciELO, Web of Science and Cochrane. The
following descriptors were used: "infusion pumps", "blood transfusion",
"transfused erythrocyte" and "hemolyis". There were no restrictions on the scope
of the initial data and it was finalized in December 2014. 17 articles were
identified in accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: all of the publications included in the studies were experimental in vitro and
covered the use of infusion pumps in transfusion therapy. A summary of the data
was presented in a synoptic chart and an analysis of it generated the following
categories: cellular damage and the infusion mechanism. Conclusion: infusion pumps can be harmful to erythrocytes based on the infusion mechanism
that is used, as the linear peristaltic pump is more likely to cause hemolysis.
Cellular damage is related to the plasmatic liberation of markers that largely
dominate free hemoglobin and potassium. We reiterate the need for further research
and technological investments to guide the development of protocols that promote
safe practices and that can contribute to future clinical studies.
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