When considering the development of medical devices, the infusion pump is relatively new in the veterinary industry. The need arose in operating rooms and intensive care units during the 1950s. The requirements were simple—a device regulating fluid and blood product administration, improving efficiency, and reducing labour. SigmaMotor Inc. met this requirement in 1961 by shipping its first infusion pump.

Sigma consistently redesigned its pumps throughout the following decade. By the 1970s, several other manufacturers entered the market, including Alaris, Baxter, Hospira (Abbott), and CME. Infusion pumps gained popularity, and engineers improved designs. Today, infusion pumps have innovative features such as power-up self-testing, on-board diagnostics, and memory.

Going with the flow

A veterinarian orders 90 ml of normal saline to be delivered over six hours (0.25 ml per minute). A veterinary technician using a 60-drop administration set, without an infusion pump, calculates a required flow rate of 15 drops per minute and adjusts the roller clamp.

However, in gravity-based IV setups, factors such as patient movement and changes in blood pressure affect flow rates, leading to under or over-infusion. IV pumps provide a constant positive pressure to maintain accurate flow rates.

IV pumps are used for critical medications, epidural anesthetic agents, cardiovascular and chemotherapy drugs, blood, home IV therapy, and pet owner-controlled analgesic units. They deliver pressurized medication streams, up to about 14 psi, regardless of patient changes, and alert staff to issues like inability to deliver ordered IV solutions.

Common denominator

All IV pumps, regardless of design or channels, share common features. They can operate using an internal rechargeable battery or AC outlet as a power source. Basic IV pumps share characteristics like air-in-line and occlusion pressure alarms, programmability for rate or total volume delivery, and a keep vein open (KVO) or to keep open (TKO) rate to prevent catheter clogging.

Service matters

Regular service and calibration of IV pumps are crucial aspects of maintaining optimal functionality and patient safety. A detailed maintenance history, encompassing all scheduled services, is essential for each supported pump, even if the maintenance is outsourced to a manufacturer-trained third party. Special attention should be given to manufacturer-recommended scheduled services, with a particular emphasis on calibration, as it plays a critical role in the IV pump’s overall function. Investing in equipment from a reputable company that offers comprehensive service ensures the pumps are maintained to the highest standards. This not only prolongs the lifespan of the equipment, but also mitigates the risk of malfunctions and inaccuracies in medication administration. Choosing a provider with a strong service commitment ensures that any issues can be promptly addressed, contributing to the reliability and effectiveness of the IV pump system in veterinary practices.

Clinics should, above all, primarily refer pump issues to the distributor or manufacturer from whom they purchased the pump. If such a source no longer exists, a qualified, biomedical electronic technology company, utilizing an infusion device analyzer (IDA), can proficiently service the pumps.

Looking ahead

Future IV pump development focuses on the electronics side, with advancements such as barcode readers and wireless technology to ensure accurate administration as ordered by the veterinarian.

Conclusion

IV pumps stand as the gold standard for accurately and seamlessly delivering IV fluids to our four-legged companions. Given the industry-wide staff shortages, an IV pump becomes an indispensable tool in ensuring proper patient care. From their early introduction in the 1950s to the cutting-edge features of today, these devices play a pivotal role in delivering medications and fluids accurately. As we look to the future, with advancements like barcode readers and wireless technology on the horizon, the commitment to regular maintenance and selecting reliable equipment providers remains paramount. The synergy of innovation and meticulous care ensures that infusion pumps continue to be indispensable tools, providing optimal healthcare for our animal companions.

Pasquale Iacono is a Canadian veteran who has been servicing medical, dental, and veterinary equipment since 1997. As the owner of pi Veterinary Consultants, he has travelled extensively across Canada, visiting veterinary clinics from coast to coast since 2015. Specializing in IV pump servicing, repair, and calibration.