If an air embolus is suspected, which action is indicated first?

• A. Clamp the tubing, turn the patient on the left side and place them in Trendelenburg to trap air in the right atrium
• B. Elevate the head of the bed and place the patient in a prone position
• C. Notify the physician and wait for orders
• D. Remove the cannula and discard the IV line

Answer: (A)

When venous air embolism is suspected, the first step is to stop air from entering the circulation and to keep any traveling air out of the lungs. Clamping the IV tubing at the entry point stops further air from being introduced. Repositioning the patient to the left side with the head down (Trendelenburg) helps trap the existing air in the right atrium and away from the pulmonary circulation, reducing the risk of a major obstruction in the lungs. While this is being done, call for help and prepare to administer 100% oxygen, since oxygen helps hasten bubble resorption. Elevating the head or placing the patient in a prone position could direct air toward the brain or lungs, waiting for orders delays care, and removing the cannula without stopping the air source won’t prevent more air from entering.