Ambulatory pump-type devices are used to infuse medications over days or weeks in the alternative or home care settings. These pumps may deliver chemotherapeutic agents, pain medications, or even antibiotics.

A controller-type electronic infusion device will monitor the infusion only. Its functions are to confirm and monitor the infusion into the patient. Many times controllers will be used for IV fluids or large volume antibiotics or medications.

Phlebitis
-inflammation of the vein intima
Mechanical:
-inflammation of the vein wall from an IV catheter
Chemical:
-inflammation of the vein wall from a medication or high osmolarity solution

Thrombophlebitis
-a thrombus accumulation around the catheter and along the length of the vein

Emboli
Air:
-an amount of air infused into the blood stream

Catheter
-a sheared piece of catheter enters the blood stream

Thrombus
-a “clot” which accumulate around an IV catheter

Infection
Localized:
-the presence of organisms at the entry point and along the track of a catheter in the vein

Pneumothorax
-entry of air into the pleural space causing a lung to collapse

Hemothorax
-blood enters and/or fills the pleural spaces

Chylothorax
-the collection of chyle (lymph fluid) in the pleural spaces

Intravascular Tip
Malposition:
-the catheter internal tip moves out of the SVC position, tip may move into the jugular vein, double back on itself or migrate into the right atrium

Sepsis:
-the presence of microorganisms and their toxins in the blood stream

Thrombosis
-accumulation of a clot in the vein around the catheter

Catheter Occlusion
-blockage of the internal lumen of the catheter with either a blood clot or drug precipitate

Catheter Rapture
-excess pressure or force used to infuse into or flush

Catheter Emboli
-a fragment of catheter material enters the blood circulation