infusionspump

An infusion pump is a medical device used to deliver controlled amounts of fluids into a patient's circulatory system or tissue. Pumps can administer intravenous, subcutaneous, or intra-arterial infusions and are used for therapies such as hydration, antibiotic administration, chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition, and pain management. Modern infusion pumps are electronic and programmable, allowing clinicians to set flow rates, volumes to be delivered, and delivery times. They typically use mechanisms such as piston-driven syringes, peristaltic tubing, or elastomeric reservoirs, and are controlled by a microprocessor that monitors the set parameters and the actual flow.

There are several major categories. Volumetric pumps deliver a continuous dose at a programmable rate; syringe pumps deliver precise volumes from a syringe; elastomeric pumps rely on the pressure of a stretched balloon reservoir and typically provide fixed-rate infusions. Ambulatory or portable pumps enable home or outpatient use, and patient-controlled analgesia pumps allow patients to self-administer opioid or non-opioid analgesics within safety limits.

Safety features include alarms for occlusion, air in the line, low batteries, incorrect tubing, or flow faults, and software checks to prevent programming errors. Regular maintenance, calibration, and staff training are essential. Infusion pumps are subject to regulatory oversight in most regions, with calibration, validation, and performance standards to ensure safe operation.

Limitations and risks include programming mistakes, incorrect drug libraries, tubing misconnection, and infection risk from intravascular access. Proper selection, setup, and monitoring minimize these risks.