infusionset

An infusion set is a sterile medical device used to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients from a source such as an intravenous bag or a subcutaneous reservoir to a patient. It creates a closed conduit between the fluid source and the patient, enabling controlled administration while minimizing contamination. Infusion sets are used in hospitals, clinics, and home care for intravenous therapy, parenteral nutrition, or continuous subcutaneous insulin delivery with pumps.

Most infusion sets include a sterile cannula or needle, a length of flexible tubing, a drip chamber to visually monitor flow, a flow regulator or clamp, and connectors or adapters to join components or access the patient’s vasculature or tissue. The distal end is inserted into a vein or placed subcutaneously, depending on the therapy. Some sets are designed for use with external infusion pumps that control the rate, while others function as gravity-fed systems. Sets may also include filters or air-elimination components and needleless safety features.

Common configurations include intravenous macrodrip and microdrip sets, which differ in their drop factors and flow characteristics, and subcutaneous infusion sets used with insulin pumps. Safety and compatibility features have expanded the range of products to reduce occlusion, accidental disconnection, and contamination.

Maintenance involves strict sterile technique, priming the line to remove air, and using the set only for a single patient for the recommended duration before disposal. Health professionals monitor for signs of infiltration, phlebitis, infection, or flow obstruction. Infusion sets are regulated medical devices and are typically disposed of in accordance with biohazard guidelines after use.