Administration Set Priming & Setup Protocol

Proper priming of the IV administration set removes all air from the tubing before connecting to the patient. Air in the line can cause discomfort, anxiety, and in extreme cases, air embolism. This module covers the Bridge step-by-step priming protocol.

Step 1 — Preparation: Verify the correct drop factor on the package label. Open the outer packaging and remove the administration set. Close the roller clamp completely. If the set includes slide clamps, close those as well. Inspect the entire set for damage, kinks, or defects.

Step 2 — Spike the Container: Remove the protective cover from the spike (top of the set). Remove the outlet port protector from the Fleboflex container. Insert the spike firmly into the outlet port using a twisting motion until fully seated. Hang the container on the IV pole.

Step 3 — Prime the Drip Chamber: Squeeze the drip chamber gently to fill it to the halfway mark. Do not overfill — you need to see drops falling to set the rate. If using a vented set with a glass bottle, ensure the air vent is open.

Step 4 — Prime the Tubing: Open the roller clamp slowly and allow fluid to flow through the entire length of tubing, through all Y-sites, and out the distal Luer lock connector. Hold the distal end over a waste receptacle. Watch the tubing carefully — tap any sections where air bubbles are trapped to dislodge them. Once a continuous, bubble-free stream flows from the distal connector, close the roller clamp. The set is now ready for connection to the patient's catheter hub.