Air in Line: An Alarming Issue

Although the literature discusses the dangers associated with venous air embolisms in animal models and human case studies, little has been published on practical remedies for AIL. Surveys from 426 nurses revealed that AIL continues to be a ubiquitous problem, with the most common method for AIL removal involving disconnecting IV tubing or manual aspiration (77%). Clinicians have used back-check or antisiphon valves and air-eliminating filters with limited success. Companies are developing newer technology that does not require manual nursing intervention.