Patient Care Innovation: Infusion Pump and IV Stand Safety at the Point of Care

Patient Care Innovation: Infusion Pump and IV Stand Safety at the Point of Care PATIENT CARE INNOVATION: INFUSION PUMP AND IV STAND SAFETY AT THE POINT OF CARE The intravenous (IV) pole or stand has not seen major innovation since its inception in the early 1970s. A mainstay in hospital rooms, the poles primary function of mobility becomes a significant hazard. The IV pole may contribute to patient harm due to its lack of stability, ergonomics of the pole, and size, number, and weight of equipment attached to the pole. Improvement of the design of the IV pole will result in improving overall patient and caregiver safety. The proposed redesign effort includes analysis and improvement of mobility, stability and power source. Incorporating the strengths of the Mayo and ASU team members, the initial focus will be on improving the physical characteristics of the pole in regard to the patient microenvironment. Anticipated outcomes will be (1) creating a safer IV system for patients and caregivers and (2) design recommendations to be forwarded to manufacturers and suppliers of the pole.~+;