What measure helps prevent air in bloodlines?

• A. Increase flow rate
• B. Use air detector
• C. Tighten all connections
• D. Flush with saline

Answer: (C)

Air in the bloodlines can cause an air embolism, a serious and potentially dangerous complication. The most reliable way to prevent air from entering the extracorporeal circuit is to make sure every connection is tight and secure. When all joints and connectors are snug, the circuit stays closed and air cannot slip in at those points, even during priming, disconnections, or pressure changes.

Using an air detector is important for catching air if it does get in, but it doesn’t stop entry from occurring. Flushing with saline can help clear small air pockets, but it doesn’t address the root cause of air entering the line. Increasing the flow rate doesn’t prevent air entry and can, in some situations, worsen the risk. Tightening all connections directly reduces the chance of air getting into the bloodlines.