Infusion pumps are an essential resource for patient care in veterinary medicine, offering comforting consistency when administering fluids and medications.
Whether delivering fluids during surgery or providing ongoing care in the ICU, having the right infusion pump is essential for ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficiency.
But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your hospital?
Let’s walk through key considerations when purchasing a new infusion pump, including which features to prioritize and common pitfalls to avoid.
Start by Understanding Your Practice’s Needs
Before diving into the technicalities, start by evaluating your practice’s unique needs:
Patient Demographics: Are you treating primarily small animals, exotics, or large animals? A pump with a wide delivery range (e.g., 0.1 to 2,000 mL/hr) can accommodate everything from tiny neonates to large equines.
Caseload: High-volume practices may benefit from pumps that automate processes, reducing the burden on staff.
Types of Procedures: Consider whether you need infusion pumps primarily for surgery, critical care, or general outpatient treatments.
Having a clear understanding of what you need will help you narrow down your options.
Key Features to Look For
When considering an infusion pump purchase, several "must-have" features can make a big difference in performance and usability:
1. Precision and Safety Features
Dynamic Pressure Monitoring System: This feature alerts you to increasing line pressure in the line, helping catch occlusions early and prevent interruptions in care.
Anti-Bolus Protection: After an occlusion is cleared, this protective feature prevents a sudden surge of fluid or medication, which could otherwise harm your patient.
Wide Delivery Range: Versatile pumps allow you to administer treatments for all types of patients and conditions safely.
2. Ease of Use for Your Team
Intuitive Interface: Technology can be tricky - look for pumps with precise, easy-to-navigate controls and displays. Time spent troubleshooting is time taken away from patients.
Visual Alarms and Guidance: Pumps that provide straightforward alarm troubleshooting tips reduce frustration and help patients return to their treatment protocol with less downtime.
Flexible Mounting Options: Features like a rotating cage clamp and a raised base make securing the pump to various setups easy, whether on a tabletop or a fluid pole.
3. Durability and Longevity
Reduced Line Fatigue: A "floating" pump mechanism minimizes line fatigue, ensuring consistent performance and extending the lifespan of your fluid lines.
High-Quality Build: Finding pumps with sturdy construction and thoughtful design can help you and your team handle the daily demands of a busy hospital.
4. Connectivity and Integration
CMS Integration: A pump that connects to your clinic management system (CMS) allows you to monitor, address alarms, and control infusion settings remotely, streamlining workflows.
Drug Library Capability: This feature enhances safety by clearly displaying medication names and dosages, reducing the risk of errors.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When purchasing an infusion pump, it’s just as important to know what to avoid:
Overlooking Maintenance and Support Needs
Avoid pumps that need frequent calibration or are challenging to clean and maintain. No one likes a high-maintenance machine if it can be avoided.
Please ensure the manufacturer provides reliable customer support and access to replacement parts or repairs.
Buying Without Scalability in Mind
Don’t choose a pump that only meets your current needs. Look for one that can grow with your practice and handle new demands as they arise.
Prioritizing Cost Over Quality
While budget constraints are real, choosing the cheapest option can lead to higher long-term expenses due to repairs or replacements. Think about the overall value rather than the price alone.
Ignoring Safety Features
Pumps lacking advanced safety features like anti-bolus protection or dynamic pressure monitoring can pose risks to your patients and your team’s workflow.
Making the Right Investment
Choosing the right infusion pump is more than finding the latest technology—it’s about ensuring your practice delivers the best possible care while supporting your team. Here are some final tips to consider:
Test Before You Commit: Request a demonstration or trial period to ensure the pump meets your expectations in a real-world setting.
Consider the Manufacturer: Work with a reputable company that produces reliable, well-supported equipment.
Think Long-Term: Look for a pump with a track record of durability and compatibility with future advancements, such as software updates or integration capabilities.
A Worthwhile Investment
The right infusion pump simplifies your team’s workflow and builds trust with pet owners who rely on you to deliver the highest standard of care.
By evaluating your practice’s needs and prioritizing key features, you can choose an infusion pump that best serves your veterinary hospital for years to come.
