Parmeters for Infusion pump

IVRUS, BSN, RN · Aug 30, 2010

Hi
I am currently working in analysis of infusion pump. I have some queries first thing is what is meabt by KVO and Bolus the exact "definition". I have seen some syringe pump with out KVO and Bolus, what does it mean? if KVO and bolus parameter is not available in a pump can i take it as min. and max. flow rate as KVO nad Bolus respectively.

A bolus usually means a discrete mass over a short time frame, while KVO means Keep Vein Open and that could mean a flow rate of anything from 0.2cc/hr to 50cc/hr (that's why KVO is an ambiguous term).

When you are doing an evaluation or analysis of a pump, it should come with an instruction manual listing its functions and all applicable terms.

anonymurse · Aug 30, 2010

We put lots of pts on cardizem @ 5 or 10mL/H and NTG at 3 to 6mL/H without accompanying IVFs and the site stays good, so I don't see why NS @ 3-10mL/H wouldn't KVO just as well.

AprilRNurse · Aug 31, 2010

We put lots of pts on cardizem @ 5 or 10mL/H and NTG at 3 to 6mL/H without accompanying IVFs and the site stays good, so I don't see why NS @ 3-10mL/H wouldn't KVO just as well.

Really? I didn't know that. My unit always runs them inline with something running between 15-25cc/hr.

iluvivt, BSN, RN · Aug 31, 2010

A syringe pump will not need a KVO rate. KVO or TKO..keep vein open or to keep open generally refers to a very slow rate to maintain the patency of the VAD you are using. For example, in home infusion we set our ambulatory pumps at a KVO rate of 0.2 ml an hour between the doses. The pateimt will stay hooked up at all times and the pump can deliver the doses as we set it. A syringe pump is medication placed in a syringe that is to be administered over a set period of time. Some syringe pumps let you set an exact time..some just have slow..medium and fast. Once the med is done you disconnect or flush the line (depends on how you have set it up) So a KVO rate on a syringe pump does not make any sense.