An infusion pump is a device used to deliver fluids into a patient. The use of infusion pumps has existed since the late 1960s. These devices deliver medicines and nutrients in controlled amounts. These tools are available for therapeutic purposes in all medical facilities and are operated by specialized physicians who know how to program the duration and rate of fluid delivery.

Infusion pumps are superior to manual infusion pumps because they deliver fluids at precise frequency, volume, and intervals. You can use these pumps to deliver medicines such as pain relievers, chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and insulin. This article introduces you to the main categories of infusion pumps and their salient features.

Common types of infusion pumps

There are many categories of infusion pumps. You can divide infusion pumps into different groups based on different factors. But there are three main categories of infusion pumps that stand out. These infusion pump types include:

• Infusion Pumps by Function
• Infusion pump organized by infusion volume
• Infusion Pumps by Mobility

Different types of IV pumps based on mobility

Flow infusion pump

Ambulatory infusion pumps are light-duty infusion pumps often used to treat people with debilitating conditions. Sometimes frail patients need to walk around with medical fluids because they need to take their medication throughout the day. Mobile and lightweight infusion pumps can help such patients be transported while receiving medication. This lightweight infusion pump solves the challenge of delivering medical infusions on the go.

Stationary infusion pump

Unlike portable, lightweight infusion pumps, stationary infusion pumps do not need to be compact and lightweight because they do not need to be moved. Bedridden patients with chronic conditions often require medication or dietary infusions. Fixed pumps provide bedside IV fluids for patients requiring frequent bedside nutrition or medication. Unlike lightweight infusion pumps , stationary pumps don't have to be light.

Classification of infusion pumps based on infusion volume

There are two types of infusion pump categories, defined by the volume of infusion they deliver.

Syringe pump or small volume infusion pump

These are infusion pumps that deliver low doses of medicines that are needed in small amounts. Many times, these are used for babies and toddlers. These infusion pumps are great for delivering small amounts of medication (such as hormones), which you deliver via a controlled motor mechanism that uses a pumping system that works like a plunger.

Large Volume Pump (LVP)

LVP is an infusion pump that can inject a large amount of nutrient solution or medicinal solution. LVP often uses electronic peristaltic pumps. The pump is controlled manually or via a computer-controlled drum.

Infusion pumps are classified by function

When considering use, there are two types of infusion pumps. These include specialty pumps and conventional pumps.

special pump

Professional infusion pumps are designed to meet the needs of special medical cases. They are often used for home care services or to treat certain conditions such as diabetes. The professional infusion pump category features three main categories of pumps, including implantable, enteral, and insulin infusion pumps.

traditional infusion pump

You can use traditional infusion pumps in medical settings such as mobile, home and long-term care settings. These pumps can be used in stationary and mobile settings to administer pain relievers, antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs and hydration fluids. Traditional infusion pumps are further subdivided into three categories, including:

• Syringe infusion pump
• Disposable Pump
• Large capacity pump
• elastic pump

Do you or anyone around you need an infusion system for medical purposes? Take the time to identify their medical needs and the ideal infusion pump for their medical needs. A perfect choice will guarantee the correct delivery of medication or dietary needs and rapid recovery of the patient.