Health devices
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In this issue, we are publishing our fourth evaluation of general-purpose infusion pumps. Although the basic technology is stable, we evaluated the performance of the new models on the market because many offer new features and hospitals rely on these devices for an increasing variety of IV therapies. The many consultation calls we receive from member hospitals are about the benefits and deficiencies of a given pump, as well as its reliability and ease of servicing. ⋯ The pumps differed significantly in performance, features, and cost. Areas of concern are infusion sets that allow free flow if not manually clamped on removal and detection of upstream occlusions. Most of the units are rated Conditionally Acceptable on the condition that users accept the responsibility of preventing free flow.
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We evaluated five microprocessor-controlled critical care ventilators from five manufacturers. We rated three units Acceptable and two units Conditionally Acceptable, basing our ratings primarily on performance, safety, monitoring features, specific deficiencies, and ergonomic and human factors design. Because of differences in clinical practice and patient populations, we recommend that purchasing decisions be based on clinical trials conducted on the full range of patients for whom the ventilator will likely be used.
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We evaluated 7 PCA infusion pumps from 7 manufacturers. The condition for acceptable use of 6 of the units is that they not be used at low volumes that could result in overinfusion from the stored volume when an occlusion is cleared. Our ratings and ranking are based primarily on safety, security, and overall ease of use. ⋯ Two of the pumps are suitable for ambulatory use but are not recommended for general hospital or home care bedside use. One of the pumps is totally disposable and nonelectronic. Purchasing decisions should also take into consideration the cost of disposables, application, and medication security.