The Power Infuser: a new device for rapid fluid infusion

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness and ease of use of the ID Power Infuser, a pocket-sized device that can infuse fluid at rates up to 6 L/hr. Forty-six adults presenting with non-traumatic hypotension or clinical hypovolemia had 0.9% NaCl solution infused by the ID Power Infuser through a peripheral i.v. catheter. Eighteen patients with hemodynamic evidence of hypovolemia had a mean infusion rate of 2 L/hr with time to resolution of hypovolemia 28.5 +/- 7 min, 14 of these had an infusion rate > or = 4 L/hr with resolution of hypovolemia of 13.7 +/- 5.8 min. Resolution of hypovolemia was significantly faster compared with a group receiving gravity infusion. Use of the Power Infuser was deemed easy (VAS = 1.9 +/- 1.9 cm). The ID Power Infuser can accurately and quickly deliver i.v. crystalloid in the ED and has the potential to reduce morbidity, time in the ED, and costs.