Myth Management: Don't Believe These Common Myths About IV Pumps

What is the purpose of infusion pumps? This essential medical device is a necessity in any hospital or nursing home throughout the country. It's the primary way that medical professionals are able to deliver fluids to a patient in a controlled manner.

Unfortunately, there are still a number of myths that are perpetuated surrounding this vital product. Here are some of the most popular myths you simply shouldn't believe.

Pumps are impacted by cell phones

There is an old rumor circulating that IV pumps are influenced by the electromagnetic frequencies given off by your cell phone. This resulted in many hospitals banning the use of cell phones back in the early 2000s among patients and doctors alike.

This myth was actually debunked by researchers back in 2005 when Mayo Clinic published a study that found no interference between IV pump brands and their electronic components. In fact, this study also proved that doctors became more efficient through the use of cell phones because communication improved. So don't worry: you can lay in your hospital beds hooked up to an Alaris pump, cell phone in hand.

There is only one kind of IV pump

Not only are there multiple kinds of IV pumps, but there are also countless IV pump manufacturers. Some of the most popular names you will hear about include Baxter IV pumps and the Alaris pump.

There are many infusion pumps that serve a variety of purposes, though most people think of the syringe pump or the elastomeric pump when prompted. The syringe pump holds its fluids within the barrel of the syringe and is manually delivered through the pump by a doctor or medical professional. This differs from the elastomeric pump which delivers a steady drip through the pressure enacted by the balloon reservoir.

These aren't the only infusion pump options. There are also insulin pumps, peristaltic pumps, self-administered pump options, and the increasingly popular "smart" pump options. The latter relies on a number of safety features to measure the correct amount of fluids delivered and alert medical staff should a medical emergency occur.

Keep in mind that there are two primary sizes of an IV pump: small-volume pumps are designed to deliver certain hormones and medicines while large-volume pumps deliver nutrients.

IV pumps only deliver medicine

Though medicine can be delivered via an infusion pump, these medical tools also deliver a number of fluids. In fact, one popular type of infusion therapy has caught on, known as hydration therapy. This is a great option for people suffering from the ill effects of dehydration or for those who need more water in their system. Smaller-volume IV pump brands also deliver hormones.

There are a number of myths surrounding IV pumps, but it's important to tell fact from fiction. After all, these medical tools are some of the most important devices in our hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. For more information on IV pump brands, contact Med One Group today.