What is the Difference Between an Infusion Pump & an IV Pump?

Infusion and IV pumps are similar devices. In fact, the names are often used interchangeably. However, there is actually an important difference between the two. Here’s what you need to know:

The term "infusion pump" generally refers to a broad category that includes various types of pumps used to deliver fluids, medications, and other solutions at a controlled and consistent rate into a patient's body.

There are three basic routes for fluid administration via an infusion pump:

● Intravenous (IV)[ Nationwide Children’s, IV (Intravenous) Therapy (online). Access 10/18/23.]

● Subcutaneous (under the skin)[ National Library of Medicine, Subcutaneous Infusion of Fluids for Hydration or Nutrition (online). Access 10/20/23. ]

● Epidural (into the epidural space around the spinal cord)[ St. Luke’s, Continuous Epidural Infusion for Pain Relief (online). Access 10/19/23.]

So, what is the difference between an infusion pump and an IV pump? An "IV pump" specifically refers to an infusion pump that is used only for intravenous administration. In other words, an IV pump is a type of infusion pump that is designed for administering medications and fluids directly into the patient's veins.

Let’s now explore this significant distinction more in-depth …

An infusion, in a medical context, refers to the process of delivering fluids, medications, or other solutions into a patient's body over a specified period of time.

The term "infusion" typically implies a controlled, continuous, and slow delivery of substances, as opposed to bolus administration, which is a rapid, concentrated administration.

Medical infusions are typically needed in various clinical situations. Some of the most common reasons include:

In order to better understand the difference between infusion and IV pumps, it is important to know the three basic types of infusions.

There are actually several types of infusions, but the three most common are:

1.Intravenous (IV) Infusion –

Intravenous infusions involve delivering fluids, medications, or other solutions directly into the patient's bloodstream through an intravenous catheter. This is one of the most direct and rapid methods of administration.

IV infusions are used for a wide range of purposes, including hydration, administration of antibiotics, pain management, chemotherapy, and many other medical treatments.

2.Subcutaneous Infusion –

Subcutaneous infusions involve delivering fluids or medications into the subcutaneous tissue, which is the layer of tissue just beneath the skin.

Subcutaneous infusions are commonly used for administering medications like insulin, heparin, or some pain medications. They are generally slower in absorption than IV infusions.

3.Epidural Infusion –

Epidural infusions involve delivering medications, such as pain relief drugs or steroids, into the epidural space around the spinal cord.

Epidural infusions are often used for pain management during labor and delivery (epidural anesthesia), as well as for managing chronic pain conditions, post-operative pain, and some neurological disorders.

Now that we know a little more about infusions and the three most common types of infusions it may be easier to understand the difference between infusion pumps and IV pumps.

As we touched on previously, the main difference between infusion pumps and IV pumps is their intended purpose and the differing designs that support that purpose.

Infusion pumps can be used for a broader range of purposes, including intravenous therapy, enteral (feeding tube) nutrition, pain management, chemotherapy, and more. They can be programmed to deliver fluids at a precise rate and may have various features and modes to accommodate different administration needs.

But an IV pump is specifically designed for intravenous therapy, making it ideal for delivering medications, blood products, or other intravenous solutions directly into a patient's bloodstream.

That means IV pumps are designed with a focus on intravenous therapy. They are typically smaller and more portable, making them suitable for use in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings where intravenous medications are commonly administered.

The features of both infusion pumps and IV pumps can vary widely depending on the model and manufacturer. Some IV pumps may have specialized features for IV therapy, while infusion pumps are more likely to have a broader range of features to accommodate various routes and medication delivery requirements.

In many cases, both infusion pumps and IV pumps can be compact, portable, and mounted on an IV pole or attached to a patient's bed. They often feature a display screen for programming and monitoring, as well as a control interface for healthcare providers to set infusion parameters. However, the appearance can vary significantly between different models.

To distinguish between the two devices, it's important to read the labels and markings on the device or consult the user manual. Manufacturers typically label their devices clearly to indicate their intended use.

The best way to understand the difference between infusion pumps and IV pumps is to view IV pumps as a subset of infusion pumps specifically designed for intravenous therapy.

Infusion and IV pumps offer several benefits in healthcare settings, making them valuable tools for the controlled and precise administration of fluids, medications, and other solutions. [ US Food and Drug Administration, Infusion Pumps (online). Access 10/19/23] Some of the key benefits of using of these pumps include:

Also, don’t forget that infusion pumps can be used for various routes of administration, including intravenous, subcutaneous, epidural, and enteral (tube feeding). This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of clinical scenarios and patient needs.

In summary, both infusion and IV pumps provide precise and customizable medication delivery, reduce the risk of errors, and improve patient comfort and safety. They are essential tools in modern healthcare, allowing for the effective administration of a wide range of therapies and treatments.

The choice between the two depends on your specific needs. Infusion pumps offer greater versatility, while IV pumps are great for just intravenous infusions.

1. Nationwide Children’s, IV (Intravenous) Therapy (online). Access 10/18/23.
2. National Library of Medicine, Subcutaneous Infusion of Fluids for Hydration or Nutrition (online). Access 10/20/23.
3. St. Luke’s, Continuous Epidural Infusion for Pain Relief (online). Access 10/19/23.
4. US Food and Drug Administration, What is an Infusion Pump? (online). Access 10/21/23.
5. US Food and Drug Administration, Infusion Pumps (online). Access 10/19/23