Introducing the Monidrop IV Fluid Monitor. This exciting new device has been developed to accurately and reliably measure the flow rate for existing gravity fed infusion sets, thus negating the need to guess infusion flow rates.
Introducing the Monidrop IV Fluid Monitor. This exciting new device has been developed to accurately and reliably measure the flow rate for existing gravity fed infusion sets, thus negating the need to guess infusion flow rates.
Currently, powered volumetric infusion pumps aim to provide an accurate flow of fluids over a prescribed period. These employ a linear peristaltic pumping mechanism applied to the infusion tubing (‘giving set’). However, this requires specialist administration sets which are more expensive than simple gravity administration sets where the infusion rate is calculated and set by the health care professional. In addition, the early results from the ECLIPSE study (2015) appear to indicate there is no evidence for the benefit of smart pumps. These studies, coupled with the current guidance on IV infusion safety, suggest that a simple but effective method of fluid delivery and monitoring is required to save resources.
The Monidrop (Monidor Finland) device allows for accurate delivery of infusion speed, target volume and speed and total volume infused. The system is portable and chargeable, and it is compatible with the most commonly used drip sets (20 drops/ml). It attaches to the drip chamber and displays on the screen:
• Infusion speed
• Total volume
• Time
• Targets (volume and speed).
Flow rate can be adjusted by using the administration set’s roller clamp; the infusion speed is shown on the system’s screen (ml/h). Monidrop® monitors the infusion but does not adjust it. It has a series of built-in alarms which indicate an infusion speed deviating from the preset limits or if it is outside the measurement range of 6ml/h-1200ml/h. The wireless connection enables remote monitoring, thus allowing the system to be used in both acute and home care settings.
Cost savings
Currently, a commonly used volumetric pump set for blood and blood components costs £2.91 per unit when purchased through the NHS supply chain. Capital outlay will also be required for the actual pump. In a typical 400-bed hospital which uses on average, 9,039 blood administration sets, the cost would be £26,303.49 per annum. A theoretical reduction in use of these sets by 10%, 15%, 20% or 50% would result in savings of £2,630.35, £3,945.52, £3,945.52 and £13,151.75, respectively. A reduction in the use of volumetric pumps and associated costly administration sets could be realised using the Monidrop® system as it facilitates effective blood and blood product administration using a standard administration set costing circa £0.61.
Conclusion
The Monidrop® system is simple yet effective. Early results from a three-month clinical trial suggest that using the system can prevent over/under delivery of IV fluid. Accurate administration will prevent complications and thus shorter hospital stay and reduced costs.
EBME Expo
Pentland Medical will be demonstrating the Monidrop device at the EBME Expo on the 3rd and 4th of April. Visit us on stand C30 to see Monidrop for yourself.
Workshop presentations on Monidrop will also be running throughout the day on the 3rd of April. You can register your place at the following link - https://www.ebme-expo.com/workshop-monidrop-moneydrop/
Pentland Medical Ltd.
48 Craighall Road
Edinburgh
EH6 4RU
Phone: 0131 467 5764
