SMTL Medical Disposable Datacard
Extension set
| All Wales Contract: | Intravenous sets and related items |
| Sterility Status: | Sterile |
| Usage Status: | Single use |
| Commonly used name: | Extension tube |
Description
A length of tubing with a capped male luer lock at one end and a capped female luer lock at the other. In some cases the conventional female luer lock may be replaced by a needle-free connector. In some cases, a clamp (a slip or a clip clamp) is provided on the tubing. Tubing is available in different materials such as polyethylene (semi rigid) and PVC (flexible).
Key areas where used
- A+E
- General ward use
- Theatre
Method of use
Extension sets are connected to IV catheters to allow a larger distance between the patient and the fluid being administered which is often necessary due to the size and volume of equipment being used at any one time. Sets should be primed prior to connection with catheter, if it is being used for infusions, a syringe should be attached and the set primed before being connected to the patient. Once an IV catheter has been introduced, the male luer lock of the extension tubing can be inserted into the port at the distal end of the catheter, sometimes this connection is secured by twisting a locking collar over the luer connection (provided on the extension set). The other end of the extension tubing can then be accessed by a syringe or more commonly, connected up to a primary giving set or syringe drive for the administration of fluids and medication. Tube extensions with narrow bores are used for paediatrics and neonates because often a lower volume/flow rate is required for smaller patients.
Please note: this datacard refers to simple extension sets. For extension sets that include stopcocks, T adapters, double or triple lumen etc. please see individual datacards
Luer- compatible needle-free connectors should be incompatible with whichever non-luer neuraxial connectors are adopted in the Welsh NHS.
Presentation
Individually packaged in a sterile peel pouch
Sizes Required
- 50/150/200cm length 1-4mm
- 1-4mm internal diameter of tubing
Example products
The following table lists examples of products known to be acceptable for this product description.
| Brand Name | Product Code | Manufacturer |
| Bionector 13.5cm extension and clam | 5222.01 | Vygon Ltd |
| Lectrocath | 1155.20 | Vygon Ltd |
Editors
P Phillips and J Ford
Please inform SMTL of any inaccuracies noted or changes required in this datacard.
Disclaimer
This datacard has been prepared as an aid to contracting for purchasers in the NHS in Wales, and should not be used as a substitute for literature, instructions or training from the manufacturers of the devices.
Products mentioned in this datacard are for illustration purposes only and should not be seen as an endorsement of these products.
