Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pump prime
The fluid used to fill the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit before initiating circulation.
Full Definition
Pump prime refers to the crystalloid or blood-based solution used to fill the tubing and components of the cardiopulmonary bypass machine before connecting to the patient. The composition affects hematocrit, electrolyte balance, and acid-base status during bypass. Common primes include crystalloid solutions, albumin, or donor blood depending on patient factors and institutional protocols. The volume typically ranges from 1200-1800mL and significantly impacts the degree of hemodilution once circulation begins.
Usage
Usage note: Use as two words 'pump prime' not 'pump-prime' in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The perfusionist used a crystalloid pump prime to minimize blood product exposure." — perfusion record
- "Blood pump prime was indicated given the patient's low preoperative hematocrit." — clinical note
Also known as
bypass prime
circuit prime
Don't confuse with
priming volume
prime solution