FOR ALL AGES
Human albumin can be administered by the intravenous route,
either undiluted or after dilution in an isotonic solution
(e.g. 5 % glucose or 0.9 % sodium chloride).
Albumin solutions must not be diluted with water for
injections as this may cause haemolysis in recipients.
The infusion rate should be adjusted according to the
individual circumstances and the indication.
In plasma exchange the infusion-rate should be adjusted to
the rate of removal.
If large volumes are administered, the product should be
warmed to room or body temperature before use.
Do not use solutions which are cloudy or contain residues
(deposits/particles). This may indicate that the protein is
unstable or that the solution has become contaminated
OTHER DETAILS
The dose required depends on the size of the patient, the severity of trauma or illness and on continuing fluid and protein losses. Measures of adequacy of circulating volume and not plasma albumin levels should be used to determine the dose required.
If human albumin is to be administered, haemodynamic performance should be monitored regularly; this may include:
– arterial blood pressure and pulse rate
– central venous pressure
– pulmonary artery wedge pressure
– urine output
– electrolyte
– haematocrit/haemoglobin.