Name of the Procedure:

• Common Names: Albumin Infusion, Intravenous Albumin
• Technical Term: Infusion, albumin (human), 25%, 20 ml (P9046)

Summary

Albumin infusion involves administering a sterile solution of human albumin proteins into a vein through an intravenous (IV) line. Albumin is a naturally occurring protein in the human body that helps maintain blood volume and pressure.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Hypoalbuminemia (low albumin levels), burns, shock, liver disease, and certain surgeries.
• Goals/Outcomes: To restore adequate blood volume, improve blood pressure, and enhance fluid balance within blood vessels.

Indications

• Severe bleeding or fluid loss
• Low blood albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia)
• Emergency treatment of shock
• Support during major surgeries
• Treatment of patients with liver disease or severe burns

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Typically, no special preparation or fasting is required. Patients should inform healthcare providers about any ongoing medications or allergies.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Blood tests to determine albumin levels, kidney function tests, and liver function tests may be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually in a reclining chair or hospital bed.
2. An IV line is inserted into a peripheral vein (usually in the arm).
3. The 25% albumin solution (20 ml) is administered slowly through the IV line.
4. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels are monitored throughout the infusion.
5. The healthcare provider observes for any adverse reactions during the infusion.

• Tools/Equipment: IV line, catheter, 25% albumin solution, infusion pump.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required, as the procedure is minimally invasive and usually painless.

Duration

• The infusion typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the patient's condition and the infusion rate.

Setting

• Can be performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN) or Infusion Nurse
• Supervising Physician or Specialist (such as a Hematologist or Internal Medicine Doctor)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild allergic reactions, such as itching or rash.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), fluid overload, or pulmonary edema.
• Complications Management: Immediate discontinuation of the infusion and administration of appropriate medications for allergic reactions or other complications.

Benefits

• Rapid restoration of blood volume and pressure
• Improved circulation and oxygenation of tissues
• Stabilization of critical patients, facilitating further medical intervention

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Monitoring of vital signs and any potential reactions.
• Recovery Time: Usually immediate, although patients might be observed for a short period post-infusion.
• Restrictions/Follow-Up: Generally none, but follow-up blood tests might be needed to monitor albumin levels and overall health.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Crystalloids (saline solution), other blood products such as plasma or synthetic volume expanders.
• Pros and Cons: Crystalloids are less expensive but might not be as effective in maintaining blood volume and pressure compared to albumin. Each alternative has specific indications based on patient needs and clinical scenarios.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Patients may feel a cool sensation in the arm as the albumin infuses. Most find the procedure comfortable with minimal discomfort.
• Post-Procedure: Patients generally feel normal immediately afterward. Any mild soreness at the IV insertion site can be managed with basic comfort measures.

Pain management and comfort measures include reassuring the patient, using a warm compress on the IV site if needed, and ensuring the patient is in a comfortable position during the infusion.