Pneumatic Tube Systems in the Hospital Setting
- Katie Reigelsperger
- Jan 10, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 25, 2023
If you complete a rotation in a hospital or later on begin working in a hospital setting, chances are that you will see and use what is often called a “tubing system”. The more proper name for these systems is pneumatic tubing systems.
These systems propel cylindrical containers through networks of tubes by compressed air or by partial vacuum. They have been used around the world for hundreds of years but are now most often seen and used in manufacturing, hospitals, and banks - like the ones you see at the drive through service!
In the hospital setting, pneumatic tubing systems are used to send blood samples and medications to the correct departments, and this requires spending less time walking through the hospital. The items are delivered quickly to their destination, so this is also helpful in the event of an emergency situation.
Pharmacies use the tubing system to send medications and IV bags to nurses on the patient floors/units. However, it is important to know that some things cannot be sent through the tubing system. Below is a list of items that cannot be tubed. Always check the policy and procedure manual for the most specific guidelines and information for your location.
Items that can NOT be sent through a pneumatic tubing system include:
Glass, flammable liquids, and controlled substances can’t be sent through a pneumatic tubing system. IV Nitroglycerin can’t be sent through a pneumatic tubing system because it is packaged in a class container. One medication the can’t be shaken would be IV Daptomycin.
Chemotherapy medications – Due to the risk of spills and contamination. Controlled substances – To prevent theft or loss. Blood products – To avoid damage or contamination.
Since IV nitroglycerin is glass its cannot be sent through the tubing system.
IV nitroglycerin is glass, thats why it cant be sent through the system
IV Nirtoglycerin cannot be sent through the tubing system because its glass.