5.13.2026
UVA Health Update | May 13, 2026
5.13.2026
New IV Infusion Pumps Processes — June 3 Go-Live
On June 3, University Medical Center will implement new BD Alaris IV infusion pumps and pump components, along with standardized workflows for how pumps are cleaned, managed, and distributed. This effort is designed to strengthen patient safety, support infection prevention, and ensure equipment is maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.
A key component of this initiative is the centralization of cleaning and inventory management within the Equipment Room, which will oversee full disinfection and redistribution of all pump components. Inventory is being expanded and supported by defined par levels, while real-time location system (RTLS) technology will provide real-time visibility into pump location and availability.
Together, these changes will streamline workflows, reduce delays in care, and create a more consistent and reliable system for managing IV infusion pumps.
General
What is changing?
New IV infusion pumps are being introduced alongside standardized workflows for cleaning, returning, requesting, and redistributing pumps.
When does this go live?
June 3 for inpatient units, Emergency Department (ED), procedural and perioperative areas, and outpatient areas including Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCC), Battle Building, and Outpatient Surgery Center (OPSC). Additional ambulatory and offsite outpatient areas will transition at a later date. More details will be shared.
Why are we making this change?
To improve patient safety, strengthen infection prevention, and ensure reliable access to equipment.
What equipment is included?
All IV pump components (brains, channels, syringe modules, and PCA modules).
New IV Pumps
What are the new pumps we are receiving?
The new pumps are updated versions from the same manufacturer and will function similarly to current pumps.
Is there anything different about the new pumps?
Yes. New pump components are not compatible with existing (older) components.
Cleaning and Responsibility
Who performs full cleaning?
The Equipment Room is responsible for full cleaning and disinfection of all pump components across care settings.
What do clinical teams need to do?
Wipe pumps after use (avoiding gold IUI connectors) and return them to the soiled utility room or follow area-specific workflows outlined below.
Are adhesives allowed?
No. Adhesives can damage equipment and delay cleaning and availability.
How long does cleaning take?
Approximately 25 minutes per pump (longer if adhesives are present).
Workflow Handling
Can pumps be reused between patients?
- Inpatient units: No. Pumps must be sent to the Equipment Room for full cleaning before reuse.
- ED, Procedural and Perioperative areas: Yes. Pumps should be wiped between each patient use and will receive full cleaning and disinfection through a weekly Equipment Room-supported exchange process.
- ECCC, Battle Building, and OPSC: Yes. Pumps should be wiped between each patient use and returned weekly for full cleaning and component exchange based on local workflows.
Where should pumps go after use?
Pumps should be wiped using approved disinfectant wipes (avoid gold IUI connectors) and returned to the soiled utility room unless otherwise specified by area workflow. Do not store used pumps on units or in empty rooms.
Can pumps be stored on units or in empty rooms?
Only clean pumps may be stored in designated par locations. Used pumps must be returned to the soiled utility room after each use unless otherwise specified by area workflow.
Do pumps stay with patients during transfers?
Yes. Pumps must remain with patients during and after transfers.
Availability and Requests
Will my area have a set number of pumps (Par)?
Yes. All clinical areas have established par levels to support patient care needs.
What if my unit is below Par?
The Equipment Room will monitor par levels using RTLS tracking and restock as needed. If inventory is unexpectedly depleted, use established workflows in Epic to request pump components.
How fast will pumps be delivered?
Pump components will be delivered multiple times per shift based on par levels and patient care needs.
What about emergencies?
In urgent situations, use pumps from your local par. If none are available, contact the Equipment Room at 2-1600 for immediate support.
Are we increasing supply?
Yes. Pump inventory and Equipment Room staffing have been expanded to support this new model.
Area-Specific Expectations
Inpatient Units
- Clean pumps with approved wipes when no longer in use (avoid gold IUI connectors).
- Return pumps to the soiled utility room after use — do not store on units or in empty rooms.
- Ensure pumps remain with patients during and after transfers.
- Do not place adhesives on pumps.
- Pump availability will be maintained through par levels and Equipment Room restocking using RTLS data.
ED, Procedural and Perioperative Areas (University Hospital)
- Clean pumps with approved wipes between each patient use (avoid gold IUI connectors).
- Return all used pump components weekly to the soiled utility room for replacement.
- Ensure pumps remain with patients during and after transfers.
- Do not place adhesives on pumps.
Adjacent Areas (ECCC, Battle Building, OPSC)
- Clean pumps with approved wipes between each patient use (avoid gold IUI connectors).
- Return all used pump components weekly for full cleaning and exchange:
- Battle Building/OPSC: Friday evening exchange managed by the Equipment Room.
- ECCC: Local weekly cleaning process maintained on site.
- Ensure pumps remain with patients during and after transfers.
- Do not place adhesives on pumps.
Support and Escalation
Who do I contact with questions or concerns?
- Urgent equipment needs: Equipment Room (2-1600)
- Equipment issues: Clinical Engineering
- Process questions or concerns: Local leadership
Accountability
What happens if workflows aren’t followed?
Failure to follow these workflows may result in equipment delays or reduced availability. Leaders will address concerns through standard coaching and accountability processes.
