This guide demonstrates how to set up the vented spike connector. To use the Vented Spike Connector, insert the vented spike into the centre of your IV tubing. Next, screw the spike connector onto the top of your vial or IV bag.
You can put pressure on the vial or bag to push any air bubbles through the spike connector and into your IV line. If you’re using an infusion pump, check that it’s set up correctly with a drip chamber before administering medication.
Table of Contents
How to set up the vented spike connector
The instructions below explain how to use the vented spike connector and how to push air bubbles out of your IV line.
To use the Vented Spike Connector
To use the Vented Spike Connector, insert the vented spike into the centre of your IV tubing. You will see a small hole at the top of the spike.
You can then insert the spike connector into this hole and screw it onto the top of your vial or IV bag.
Next, screw the spike connector onto the top of your vial or IV bag
To do this, turn clockwise until you feel it click into place. Do not over-tighten! Make sure it is secure and not loose; if you’re having trouble with this step, try using a different vial or bag to avoid potential injury.
You can put pressure on the vial or bag to push any air bubbles through the spike connector and into your IV line
Now that you’ve got the vented spike connector, it’s time to start pushing your solution. Once ready, gently push the vented spike into the centre of your IV tubing.
As you press down on the connector, air bubbles will begin to come through and out of its vents.
Once you’ve made sure that all of your solutions have gone through both sides of the vented spike connector, screw it onto the top of your vial or IV bag so that it stays put as you connect it to an empty extension line or another source for fluids.
If you’re using an infusion pump, check that it’s set up correctly with a drip chamber before administering medication.
It’s essential to ensure that your infusion pump is set up correctly. You’ll need:
- The correct drip chamber.
- The suitable drip chamber tubing.
- The suitable drip chamber connector (which connects the pump with the IV tube).
- The right filter on the end of that connector, if applicable.
Conclusion
This tool is a helpful one to have around if you’re on intravenous medication and need to set up IV tubing. The vented spike connector is easy to use and can make administering your medications much easier.
