IV pumps for medical missions can often be challenging due to the variety of brands and tubing requirements, ranging from low to high quality. Additionally, these pumps are expensive to service. We currently use two main brands of pumps, the IPA and HK series, which are affordable through our charity contracts. These pumps are versatile, accepting different types of IV tubing, and can be calibrated for precision. They are also user-friendly and utilize newer technology compared to many primary brands like Alaris and Carefusion.

 

Even with additional costs from taxes and freight, these pumps are our top choice due to their affordability and flexibility. We have syringe pumps for neonates and peristaltic pumps for regular adult use.

Brand-name standards such as Baxter, Sigma Spectrum, and Alaris are sometimes the only options available in mission hospitals. Of these, the Sigma Spectrum pump is our second recommendation. These pumps are often replaced in hospitals and are typically cheaper and simpler to service than other main brands.

 

If purchasing brand-name pumps for the mission field, we highly recommend the Sigma Spectrum due to its potential for cost-effective repairs. It's important to note that Sigma Spectrum requires specific IV tubing and a key for unlocking the pumps, which can be 3D printed.

It is crucial to ensure that the specific tubing required is tested and sourced before deployment. Some expensive brands have costly tubing. Additionally, before deploying used infusion pumps to the mission field, they must be tested for accuracy of flow delivery using an IV pump tester.

 

A qualified biomedical technician should ensure that the flow rates are accurately delivered, as repair services for many brand-name pumps can be quite expensive.