Reusable EMS IV equipment has a significant danger of infection because it promotes the growth of bacteria. Warming devices were previously designed to be reapplied after cleaning and this resulted in patients developing secondhand bacterial infections. Additionally, water bath models had a substantial risk for the mixing of liquids and harming the individual receiving fluids intravenously. As a result, portable models became available to remove power restrictions, offer disposability, and decrease the cost of maintaining this type of equipment. While disposable qualities are an important focus of this equipment, the technology applied in these EMT supplies is equally imperative. Designs consisting of low mass heaters, sensors, non-proprietary components, and stainless steel tubing supply increased temperature consistency and allow for dependable treatment under any environmental condition.
EMT Supplies: Why are Dry Heating Designs Better?
Water bath based EMT supplies have been found by the Centers for Disease Control to cause microbial problems. Models using this method of warming have the highest risk of bacterial infection due to improper cleaning. Liquids used in the tank itself are capable of mixing with blood to create a cross contamination scenario. Water bath devices sometimes spray fluids through open ports thus putting staff members at risk for contamination while working on a patient. Tubing problems lead to bath solution entering an individual's blood stream. Bacteria will remain within portions of the equipment unless extensive cleaning is performed. Disposable options eliminate a variety of these issues and dry methods remove the worries of liquid mixing or contamination. EMS IV equipment must be designed to work with the environment at hand. New devices meet the challenges of emergency personnel head on to provide an ideal solution for warming fluids before they reach the patient's blood stream.
Innovative technology has taken EMS IV equipment to the next level by supplying the convenience professionals need to offer improved care during field treatment, transport, or emergency procedures. Disposable technology eliminates the need for custom delivery sets. The latest equipment uses a microprocessor to control the temperature delivered through the fluid path. An exchanger and control board are combined within a flame resilient casing for dependable results. Stainless steel tubing, a lightweight flex circuit, and sonic welding complete the exchanger used by these devices. Plastic tubing or cassettes used in previous models had a tendency to overheat, whereas later low mass heater designs are capable of consistent transmission due to the elimination of less conductive materials.
Flow rate changes or stop flow conditions are detected by sensors in order to deliver increased consistency. Warming provided by these EMT supplies occurs closer to the infusion site in order to reduce the effects of ambient cooling. Today's portable dry heat devices are compatible with most standard IV extension sets. Each is powered by a battery for field or facility use where electricity is not present. EMS IV equipment with these qualities is a phenomenal advancement for healthcare professionals. These changes have given responders the opportunity to provide low risk warming immediately upon arrival and are capable of amplifying a person's chance of recovery.