Intravenous (IV) therapy is the quickest method of administering fluids or medications to patients, because 100% of the dosage is absorbed from the administration site.
Two ways of controlling the rate and amount of fluids delivered by an IV are: doing it manually or using an infusion pump. Infusion pumps have been used since the 1960s, and it’s estimated that by 2024, the global market for them will be over $5 million. The University of Michigan Health Systems also estimates that of all patients admitted to hospitals, 86% will need an infusion pump.
When considering different types of IV pumps for your facility, there are three major reasons why you should select Alaris smart pumps.
1. They Reduce Errors.
According to the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation (APSF), the use of smart pumps can decrease the possibility of medication errors. That’s because, in order to ensure that their programming is within pre-established parameters before beginning infusion, smart pumps like Alaris can perform a “test of reasonableness.”
In addition, the new generation of smart pumps helps to avoid errors by incorporating multiple comprehensive libraries. The information contained in these libraries consists of drugs, dosing units (e.g., mcg/kg/min, units/hr), concentrations generally used, and dosage limits. Bolus and infusions can both be programmed using an expanded drug dose calculator.
2. They Increase Efficiency.
Healthcare IT News states that the automation of IV infusion systems offers additional benefits besides safety. Reducing the number of manual inputs necessary leads to more streamlined and efficient workflow for nurses.
3. They Save Money.
Because automation results in better accuracy when billing medication start and stop times, smart pumps are often more cost-effective.
Also, Healthcare IT News believes that the improved nursing workflow created by smart pumps saves community hospitals a great deal of money.
There are many different types of IV pumps available for use in your facility, and your number one priority when making a choice should always be patient safety. Alaris smart pumps not only meet this standard, but they also benefit your hospital or clinic by increasing staff efficiency in your workplace and by saving your facility money. Because of the advantages they offer, you’ll want to seriously consider choosing Alaris infusion pumps.
