An infusion pump delivers fluids, medication, or nutrients to a patient via the circulatory system, subcutaneously, or epidurally, via controlled pressure injecting. An infusion pump is used when it is otherwise impossible to treat a patient at the prescribed times and quantities, such as in minute quantities smaller than what a drip system can deliver.
An infusion pump can administer continuously, intermittently, or even in a patient-controlled on-demand schedule. Considered a "Class II" device by the U.S. FDA, infusion pumps are subject to special controls and designed to perform as indicated without causing injury or harm to the patient or user. An infusion pump consists of a fluid reservoir, a catheter, and an advanced, precision electronic mechanism to regulate flow. Design considerations include:
- High-accuracy sensors or a volumetric metering chamber (a pump with a stepper or servo-controlled DC motor) to regulate flow
- A processor with a graphical user interface , smart and real-time physiological processing, and connectivity for monitoring and logging to intercept anomalies
Infusion Pump Block Diagram
