subject: Infusion Pump and Its Types [print this page] Infusion Pump and Its Types Infusion Pump and Its Types
Infusion pump is a device used for medical purposes where fluids, medication and nutrients such as insulin, chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics and other hormones have to be delivered into the body of the patient according to the prescription. This mechanism is used in various healthcare services and homes around the world. Infusion pumps, over the years, have contributed to a great extent in the advancement of medication by providing accuracy, exactitude and increased level of drug supply and hence reducing the risk of medication blunders.
These infusion pumps are available in different types depending on their utility for various purposes and in diverse environments. The two broad categories in which this device can be differentiated depend on its capability to supply fluids in small or large amounts.
Here are a few types of infusion pumps that are designed to operate for specific purposes:
Ambulatory Pumps: these are small pocket sized pumps which are designed for portability wherein the patients require wearing it for a longer period. It has linear peristaltic machinery with a small fluid container like a cassette or floppy bag.
Enternal pump: this pump is largely used to dispense fluid medications and nutrients to the digestive part of the patient.
Insulin Pumps: these are mostly used at home to dispense insulin to people suffering from diabetes.
Syringe pumps: these pumps are used to hold the liquid drug in the reservoir of the syringe and to provide a controlled fluid supply through the moveable piston.
Patient controlled analgesia pumps: these pumps are also known as PCA; they help in delivering pain drugs and are designed in such a way that the patient himself can dispense a controlled quantity of drug required. These pumps are pre-programmed and instill on demand to prevent intoxication. The flow of the medication is controlled by a pressure pad or switch that the patient can activate when required.
Elastomeric Pumps: these pumps are equipped in such a pattern that an expandable balloon reservoir holds the medication in it and delivers it when the elastic balloon walls put pressure on the fluid.
Multi channel infusion pump: this pump is designed in such a way that fluids can be delivered into the patient's body through multiple channels and at different rates. It permits two to three infusions at the same time through the multiple channels. But one major risk that this pump can come across is mismatched mixing.
If you are looking for an infusion pump check online for information on various types and brands. However, you should only buy after you have consulted your physician for the same.
