Background
Intravenous (IV) smart pumps are widely used in healthcare, particularly in US acute care hospitals, to administer large amounts of fluids and medications.
Study Objective
This study aimed to compare medication administration practices between two types of IV smart pumps during actual clinical use, focusing on primary and secondary infusion practices.
Methods
The study was observational and noninterventional, conducted in two large urban hospitals using different IV smart pump systems: the head-height differential system (BD/Alaris pump) and the cassette system (ICU Medical Plum 360).
Key Findings
The study found that the head-height differential system had a 0% compliance rate for primary line setup and 84% compliance rate for secondary line setup, with one omitted medication due to a closed clamp. In contrast, the cassette system had no head-height requirements, and two roller clamps were found to be in the closed position, but the clinician was alerted by an alarm, preventing medication delays.
Conclusion
The study highlights the difficulties in achieving consistent flow rate accuracy using head-height differential systems and the need for additional human factor-designed technology to improve the process of care for nurses and patient safety.
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