What are Portable Infusion Pumps?

Published on: April 1, 2024

Infusion pumps are used to deliver medicine or nutrients into a patient’s body at controlled rates and intervals. While infusion pumps have been popular in hospitals for decades, more patients are opting for a portable solution. Whether a patient feels more comfortable receiving treatment outside of a hospital or if they have a busy schedule, portable infusion pumps can provide a patient with the necessary treatment at their desired time and location.

Portable infusion pumps can be administered by a trained user, whether that be a medical professional or the patient. If the patient wants to administer his or her own treatment, then a nurse can train the patient (as well as a caregiver if needed). Nevertheless, it is recommended for a trained medical professional to be administering the treatment for safety purposes.

Since there are a variety of portable infusion pumps on the market, let us help you learn about each of them.

1. Ambulatory Infusion Pumps are battery-powered, compact pumps that can be used outside of a hospital setting. This type of pump will be your typical portable infusion pump since these pumps can be worn or carried during treatment.
2. Elastomeric Infusion Pumps are single-use pumps that use a filled elastomeric balloon to control the application of treatment. Instead of relying on a battery or electricity, the elastomeric balloon and flow restrictors enable treatment to be administered by a trained user or at a clinic (Promecon).
3. Smart Infusion Pumps operate similarly to ambulatory infusion pumps, but offer the latest smart pump technology (SPT) and software to enhance the safety of at-home use (Journal of Infusion Nursing). From drug libraries to medical safety software, smart infusion pumps provide patients with controlled treatment to administer outside of the hospital.

 

Benefits of Having a Portable Infusion Pump

With many people living an on-the-go lifestyle, having your infusion pump accessible wherever you go can be extremely handy. Whether you are in your home or out of town, a portable infusion pump can provide you with treatment wherever and whenever you need it.

Instead of having to plan your life around infusion appointments, you can work the appointments into your everyday life at home, or at a local infusion center. Even though treatment isn’t the most exciting activity, you can reap the benefits of having portable access to it. Besides its accessibility, what are some other benefits of having a portable infusion pump? Let’s find out!

• The lightweight device allows for movement during therapy.
• Low-risk with implemented regulators.
• Easy-to-use device with proper professional training.
• Less time spent in a hospital setting.
• Opportunities for Medicare at-home services with a trained nurse (CMS).
• Convenient for patients who require frequent treatments.
• Access to smart technology that can do the management for you.

It is important to note that not all treatments are approved for a portable infusion pump. If you have any questions as to whether your medical treatment can be administered via a portable infusion pump, contact your primary health care provider.

 

Check out these personal stories of patients who now use at-home infusion therapy to make their treatment more comfortable.

 

 

Are Portable Infusion Pumps FDA Approved?

Portable infusion pumps are FDA approved, but they do urge caution for operating without a medical professional. Similar to any other medical device, using a portable infusion pump has risks of its own. From 2005 to 2009, the FDA received numerous reports regarding safety issues as a result of infusion pumps.

In 2010, the FDA implemented the Infusion Pump Improvement Initiative to combat any potential risks. Through this initiative, the FDA aimed to establish and monitor infusion pump manufacturer requirements, actively seek device improvements, and spread user awareness via education (FDA). As a result, they aim to provide patients with the safest environment for administering their critical fluids.

One of the safest environments for your infusion treatments is at an infusion center. They will provide you with professional medical assistance while making it more comfortable than a hospital.

If you are looking for a local place to administer your infusion therapy outside of the hospital, then you need to check out our IDATB Infusion Centers in Tampa, Florida. Our professional staff will ensure a smooth and comfortable treatment all within the comfort of our Tampa facilities. You are more than welcome to use our onsite infusion pumps or bring your own portable infusion pump. Check out our offered infusion center services at the link here.

 

 

How to Extend the Life of Your Pump

When it comes to powering an infusion pump, maintaining its longevity is extremely important for out-of-hospital use. If your infusion pump shuts off, then it will stop pumping treatment which will affect its results (Mouser Electronics).

The best way to prevent this is by making sure your pump has rechargeable batteries and battery backup packs. This preparation is extremely important before starting your treatment, especially if you aren’t at home. Your portable infusion pump will only last if you take care of it. If you are looking for ways to extend the life of your pump, you should follow these tips:

1. Clean, Clean, Clean. Treat your infusion pump with the proper care recommended on its directions or labeling. This regular cleaning will allow you to get in as many treatments as intended.
2. Repair Immediately. If your infusion pump is malfunctioning, then do not hesitate to send it to a professional for repairs. You want to make sure your pump is in its best condition for administering your medicine.
3. Keep Software Up to Date. By updating the recommended software, your infusion pump will run smoother and without errors. This maintenance will decrease the chances of having any technical issues.

 

How IDATB Can Assist You | Infusion Services

Whether you want to administer your own infusion therapy via a portable infusion pump or receive assistance from a professional, Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay (IDATB) is here to help you. For those who want to learn, we offer portable infusion pump management services to teach you how you can be independent. We provide on-site professional support to assist you every step of the way.

Additionally, if you are tired of doing it yourself, then our experienced team can help administer your infusion therapy. Our IDATB Infusion Centers are open 7 days a week with physician supervision to ensure your peace of mind during your treatment. Call today to set up your next infusion therapy appointment at IDATB.

 

Additional Resources:

• FDA Infusion Pumps Total Product Life Cycle
• FDA White Paper: Infusion Pump Improvement Initiative
• FDA Infusion Pump Improvement Initiative
• Infusion Services at IDATB
• Implementation of Smart Pump Technology With Home Infusion Providers by Journal of Infusion Nursing
• Important Considerations for Infusion Pump and Portable Medical Designs (mouser.com)

 

Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay

Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay (IDATB) provides high-quality healthcare services for patients in the Tampa Bay metro area. If you or someone who lives with you would like to visit our infusion center, then IDATB is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, IDATB has been providing Floridians with infusion therapy specific to their needs. If you have any questions or concerns about infectious diseases or infusion therapy, call IDATB at 813-251-8444.