PubMed · 7978153
The source did not provide an abstract. Follow the original record for more information.
Explore connections, maps & timelines
T M Cook, C R Monk. 1994. Problems with the InterLink system.. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2044.1994.tb04474.x
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.
KEEP EXPLORING
The flow rate accuracy and flow continuity of the Homepump, Infusor, Intermate, Paragon, Sidekick, and Springfusor 10 flow-restricting infusion devices were studied. Three of each device were tested in a temperature-controlled cabinet at the manufacturer-specified operating temperature and at 20 and 30 degrees C. The flow rates used were 100 ml/hr and the rate that would provide a 24-hour delivery of fluid, except in the case of the Springfusor 10, which was tested at the maximum and minimum flow rates. Flow rate was measured gravimetrically at 30-second intervals. The endopoint of infusion was defined as the start of the terminal-phase decline. The effect of refrigerated storage was studied by using the Intermate as an example of the elastomeric devices tested. All devices exhibited a variable flow profile during infusion except for the Paragon, which had a near-constant flow throughout. The average error in flow rate was within the manufacturer's specifications when the devices were used under the manufacturer-specified operating conditions for all devices except for the Sidekick. The definition of the endopoint made little difference in the flow rate results for the Infusor and Springfusor 10 but significantly affected the flow rate results for the other devices, for which there was a substantial terminal phase with a prolonged period of reduced flow rate. The mean flow rate, error, and coefficient of variation for the Intermate devices stored under refrigeration were significantly different from those for the devices not refrigerated before use. When operated as recommended by the manufacturer, five of six devices had a flow rate error within the manufacturer's specifications; the results were affected by endpoint definition.
Explore the source record for details and available documents.
Adverse drug events affect approximately 10% of patients in hospitals and result in increased rates of morbidity and mortality. These adverse events extend hospital stays an estimated 1.7 to 2.2 days and increase costs by approximately $3,200 for patients who are affected. Nurses play a key role in reducing risks of adverse drug events. Through purposeful, planned actions, nurses can help to curtail unexpected costs and can further promote safe patient care. Specific problem areas of the drug delivery system resulting in high numbers of significant (lethal or severe) drug events can be targeted for precautionary actions. An interdisciplinary "safety net" can be developed and maintained to reduce these events. Guidelines are recommended for system-wide approaches to prevention and continuous quality improvement activities.