Terms

Administration Set: A device that connects the infusion pump to the patient, and delivers fluids or medication.

Alarms: Audible or visual warnings on the infusion pump that alert healthcare providers if there is a problem with the infusion.

Bolus: A large, rapid infusion of medication or fluid, typically used to quickly raise a patient’s blood pressure or replace fluid loss.

Calibration: The process of adjusting an infusion pump to ensure that it is delivering fluids or medication accurately.

Catheter: A thin tube inserted into the body to deliver fluids or medication, usually into a vein or artery.

Dose: The amount of medication or fluid that is programmed into the infusion pump to be delivered over a specific period of time.

Drip Rate: The speed at which fluids or medication are delivered from the infusion pump, measured in drops per minute.

Extravasation: The unintentional leakage of fluid or medication from the catheter into surrounding tissue.

Flow Rate: The speed at which fluids or medication are delivered from the infusion pump, measured in milliliters per hour.

Gravity Infusion: A method of delivering fluids or medication using only gravity, without the use of an infusion pump.

Infusion: The delivery of fluids or medication into the body through a catheter.

Infusion Pump: A medical device used to deliver fluids or medication into a patient’s body in a controlled and precise manner.

Infusion Therapy: The administration of fluids or medication into a patient’s body using an infusion pump.

Intravenous (IV): A method of delivering fluids or medication directly into a patient’s bloodstream using a catheter.

Isolation: The process of separating the infusion pump and its components from the patient to prevent infection.

Lockout: A feature on some infusion pumps that prevents accidental overdose by limiting the amount of medication that can be delivered over a specific period of time.

Occlusion: A blockage in the catheter that prevents fluids or medication from being delivered.

PCA (Patient Controlled Analgesia): A method of pain management that allows patients to control the delivery of their own pain medication through an infusion pump.

Peristaltic Pump: A type of infusion pump that uses rollers to squeeze fluid through the tubing.

Pressure Infusion: A method of delivering fluids or medication under pressure, typically used in emergency situations.

Priming: The process of filling the infusion tubing with fluid or medication before connecting it to the patient.

Rate Setting: The process of programming the infusion pump to deliver fluids or medication at a specific flow rate.

Syringe Pump: An infusion pump that uses a syringe to deliver medication or fluids.

TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition): A type of infusion therapy that delivers nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.

Volume Limit: A feature on some infusion pumps that limits the amount of fluid or medication that can be delivered over a specific period of time.

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