LifeFlow PLUS Replacement Tubing: When to Replace
By Products With A Mission | North American Rescue | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Know when to replace your LifeFlow PLUS tubing to maintain safety and performance. This guide covers visual checks, usage limits, and storage tips.
Quick answer
Replace LifeFlow PLUS tubing after each single patient use, immediately if you see cracks, discoloration, or leaks, or at the manufacturer's recommended interval—whichever comes first.
Why timely replacement matters
Tubing that looks fine on the outside can harbor micro-cracks or biofilm that compromise fluid delivery and patient safety. The LifeFlow PLUS Replacement Tubing is built for reliable performance, but no medical-grade tubing lasts forever—especially after exposure to fluids, temperature changes, or repeated handling.
Waiting too long between changes increases the risk of occlusion, contamination, or sudden failure during a procedure. A proactive replacement schedule keeps your LifeFlow PLUS system ready for emergency or clinical use.
Storage conditions affect lifespan
How you store the tubing between uses matters as much as how you use it. Keep replacement tubing in its original packaging or a clean, dry container away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, or sharp objects. UV exposure and high temperatures accelerate material breakdown even when the tubing is not in use.
If your spare LifeFlow PLUS Replacement Tubing has been sitting in a hot vehicle or near a window for weeks, inspect it carefully before putting it into service.
How to decide when to replace your LifeFlow PLUS tubing
- 1. Inspect before every use: Run your fingers along the entire length of the tubing while looking for cracks, kinks, discoloration, or stiffness. Check the connectors for cracks or deformation. A common mistake is only checking the middle section—connectors often fail first. If you see any damage, replace the tubing before use.
- 2. Follow the single-patient rule: Replace tubing after each individual patient, even if it looks clean. Residual fluids can support bacterial growth, and microscopic debris can affect flow accuracy. A common mistake is rinsing and reusing to save time—this introduces contamination risk. Always use fresh tubing for a new patient.
- 3. Track storage time: If the tubing has been stored for more than 12 months in its original packaging, inspect it closely before use. If it has been exposed to extreme conditions (heat, cold, sunlight), shorten that window to 6 months. A common mistake is assuming sealed packaging guarantees indefinite shelf life. Label your spare tubing with the purchase date to track age.
- 4. Perform a pressure test after replacement: After installing new tubing, flush the line with saline or water and check for leaks at every connection point under working pressure. A common mistake is skipping this step and discovering a leak during a procedure. A 30-second pressure test can prevent a mid-procedure failure.
Product facts
- LifeFlow® PLUS Replacement Tubing: The LifeFlow® PLUS Replacement Tubing is a practical accessory designed to support the LifeFlow® PLUS system. Having a spare on hand means you can swap tubing immediately when you spot wear, avoiding downtime during critical fluid administration.
LifeFlow® PLUS Replacement Tubing
