Which of the following is accurate regarding infusion pumps?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Infusion pumps automatically regulate rate and amount of fluid is correct because infusion pumps are mechanical or electronic devices designed to deliver precise volumes of fluids or medications at controlled rates. They help maintain accurate dosing, especially for critical medications, vesicants, or pediatric patients, and reduce the risk of errors compared with gravity-based IV administration. B. Infusion pumps prevent all adverse effects of IV therapy is incorrect because pumps cannot prevent complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, infection, or allergic reactions. While they improve dosing accuracy, clinical monitoring and proper IV site assessment are still essential. C. Infusion pumps use gravity to maintain rate is incorrect because infusion pumps mechanically drive the fluid rather than relying on gravity. Gravity-based IV administration uses the height of the fluid bag and manual flow regulators, not pumps, to control infusion rate. D. The infusion pump will automatically stop when the IV catheter is displaced from the vein is incorrect because pumps do not always detect catheter displacement. Some advanced pumps have air-in-line or occlusion alarms, but manual monitoring is required to identify infiltration, dislodgment, or other site complications.