Experience Summary

In this 360-degree video, observe the procedure of checking the Braun perfusor with a member of the Kent Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Charity.

Clinical Context

The B. Braun Space System Perfusor is a compact, lightweight syringe infusion pump designed for precise drug administration, making it particularly well-suited for use in air ambulance services. In the high-stakes, space-constrained, and vibration-prone environment of helicopter or fixed-wing transport, this device ensures reliable and accurate delivery of critical medications.

When to Use the Braun Space System Perfusor in Air Ambulance

The Perfusor is essential during air medical transport when patients require continuous IV infusion of medications such as vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine), sedatives (e.g., midazolam), analgesics (e.g., fentanyl), or inotropic agents. These drugs must be delivered with high precision due to their narrow therapeutic windows and clinical importance.

It is particularly valuable in the following scenarios:

• Critically ill or trauma patients in transit to tertiary care centers.
• Intubated or sedated patients needing continuous medication support.
• Neonatal and pediatric transports, where micro-infusions are necessary.
• Situations requiring tight hemodynamic control (e.g., sepsis, cardiogenic shock, post-resuscitation care).

Its robust design and secure mounting options ensure stability during turbulence, vibrations, or rapid altitude changes—common challenges in air transport.

Daily Checks (Pre-Mission)

To ensure safety and performance, daily pre-flight checks must be performed:

1. Visual inspection – Check the housing for cracks, damage, or loose components.
2. Battery status – Verify battery charge level; recharge if below the recommended threshold.
3. Function test – Power on the unit and perform a self-test. Confirm display functionality, audible alarms, and button response.
4. Syringe mechanism check – Insert a test syringe to verify proper clamping, drive function, and detection.
5. Alarm test – Simulate occlusion and air-in-line to ensure proper alarm activation.
6. Cleaning – Wipe down with approved disinfectant per infection control guidelines.
7. Check accessories – Ensure compatible syringes, tubing, and mounting hardware are present and in good condition.
   

How to Use During Transport

1. Setup: Mount securely in the cabin or on stretcher equipment rails. Confirm power source—internal battery or aircraft-integrated.
2. Programming: Load syringe, input drug name, dose rate, and volume. Use drug library if available.
3. Monitoring: Prime, start infusion, and monitor for alerts. Use display lock during turbulence.
4. Handover: Stop infusion, document details, and safely disconnect on arrival.
   

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand the daily equipment safety checks in pre-hospital medicine.
2. Understand the important components of a perfusor/syringe driver.

External Resources

• Air Ambulance Charity - Kent Surrey Sussex
• A Day in the Life of a HEMS Crew Member
• A ‘typical’ day for the crew of Great Western Air Ambulance Charity