Category
Drug Delivery
Typical Use
Deliver controlled intravenous medication or fluids.
Description
A programmable device that administers intravenous fluids and medications at precise rates and volumes, enabling accurate delivery of continuous infusions such as antibiotics, vasopressors, and parenteral nutrition. Infusion pumps include safety features such as occlusion detection, air in line alarms, and dose limiting software to reduce medication errors, but require correct programming, regular maintenance, and staff training to ensure safe operation. Smart pumps integrated with drug libraries and electronic medical records further reduce risk by providing dose checks and standardized protocols. Vigilant monitoring of infusion sites, pump alarms, and patient response is essential to detect infiltration, extravasation, or adverse drug effects promptly.