Name of the Procedure:

Replacement Battery for External Infusion Pump

• Common Name: Battery Replacement for Infusion Pump
• Technical Term: Battery Replacement for External Infusion Pump (HCPCS K0604)

Summary

This procedure involves replacing the battery in an external infusion pump that the patient owns. The battery is a lithium, 3.6-volt unit. Infusion pumps are used to deliver medication, typically for chronic conditions, and a functioning battery is crucial for their operation.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to ensure the continuous and reliable operation of the external infusion pump. The pump is essential for conditions that require ongoing medication administration, such as diabetes (insulin pumps), pain management, or chemotherapy.

Indications

• The infusion pump's battery is running low or has failed.
• The infusion pump indicates a need for a battery replacement via alerts or alarms.
• Routine maintenance to prevent battery failure during critical medication delivery.

Preparation

• Prior to the procedure, the patient should ensure they have a fully charged replacement battery.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• A brief check of the current battery's status and any alarms or alerts from the pump.

Procedure Description

1. Deactivate the Pump: Turn off or pause the infusion pump to prevent medication delivery during the battery replacement.
2. Remove the Battery Compartment: Open the compartment housing the battery, typically located on the pump's rear or side.
3. Remove the Old Battery: Take out the depleted battery carefully.
4. Insert the New Battery: Place the new 3.6-volt lithium battery into the compartment, ensuring it is seated properly.
5. Secure the Compartment: Close the battery compartment securely.
6. Reactivate the Pump: Turn the pump back on and verify proper operation.
7. Check Functionality: Ensure the pump is working correctly and delivering medication as programmed.

Duration

This procedure typically takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

The procedure can be performed at home or in an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• The patient can often perform this procedure themselves.
• In some cases, a caregiver, nurse, or medical technician may assist.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor risk of improper battery installation, which may result in the pump not functioning.
• Rare Risks: Potential damage to the pump if handled improperly; risk of interruption in medication delivery.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Ensures continuous and effective medication delivery.
• Realization Time: Benefits are realized immediately upon successful battery replacement.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Ensure the pump is operating correctly and there are no alerts or error messages.
• Recovery Time: Immediate.
• Restrictions: No specific restrictions.
• Follow-up: Routine checks of the pump’s battery status to prevent future issues.

Alternatives

• Alternative Treatments: None specifically for battery replacement, though alternative drug delivery systems exist.
• Pros and Cons: Regular battery replacement is simple and ensures the pump works effectively, whereas alternatives like manual medication administration may be less consistent.

Patient Experience

• During: Minimal discomfort or difficulty; it is a straightforward mechanical task.
• After: The patient should monitor the pump to ensure it is functioning and address any alerts. Pain management or comfort measures are typically not necessary.

By ensuring the pump has a fresh, reliable battery, patients can maintain consistent, effective treatment and avoid potential complications from interrupted therapy.