Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pump prime
The initial filling of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit with fluid before connecting to the patient.
Full Definition
Pump prime refers to the process of filling the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit with a priming solution before initiating bypass. The prime typically consists of crystalloid solutions, colloids, blood products, and medications to ensure proper circuit function and patient safety. The volume and composition of the prime affect the patient's hematocrit, electrolyte balance, and coagulation status once bypass begins. Proper priming removes air bubbles and ensures adequate flow through all circuit components.
Usage
Usage note: Can be used as both noun ('the pump prime') and verb ('to pump prime').
In Context
- "The pump prime consisted of 1200 mL of lactated Ringer's solution and 500 mL of 5% albumin." — perfusion record
- "Heparin was added to the pump prime to prevent circuit clotting." — operative note
Also known as
circuit priming
bypass prime
Don't confuse with
pump flow
priming volume