Abstract: A device is provided for pumping fluid from a wellbore up to surface. The device includes a stator unit, a rotor unit run within the stator unit on a rod string, the rotor unit and the stator unit engaging with one another to form an annular space therebetween for passage of fluid. An upstream check valve on the rod string uphole of the rotor unit is moveable from an open position in which fluid is passable through the annular space, and a closed position in which fluid passage through the annular space is prevented. A hollow rod section extends through the rod string in fluid communication with the annular space both downstream and upstream of the upstream check valve, for entry of fluid into a downhole end of the hollow rod section, passage of fluid upstream therefrom and exit of fluids from an uphole end of the hollow rod section, back into the annular space. A method is further provided for pumping fluid from a wellbore after shutdown.