The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the United Kingdom has posted a medical device safety alert concerning Alaris syringe pumps (all models).

Alaris syringe pumps are manufactured by CareFusion – using non-recommended syringes in Alaris syringe pumps that have a broken spring in the plunger assembly may cause unintended bolus of medication.

Users are advised to:

• If the pump keeps showing 'check syringe' alarms, contact the manufacturer to discuss how to check the springs housed in the plunger holder;
• Use only the recommended syringes listed in the instructions for use for these pumps;
• Ensure all syringe pumps are regularly maintained and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

For details, please refer to the MHRA website:
https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/alaris-syringe-pumps-all-models-risk-of-uncontrolled-bolus-of-medicine-with-non-recommended-syringes

If you are in possession of the affected products, please contact your supplier for necessary actions.

Posted on 23 December 2016