Intravenous fluid resuscitation: was Poiseuille right?
OBJECTIVE
To compare the flow rates of readily available intravenous infusion devices and to compare the effect of the addition of pressure or a needle-free intravenous connector device.


METHODS
Several intravenous devices with different characteristics had their flow rates determined under a standard set of conditions. The flow rates were then measured with the addition of a pressure bag to the system and then with a needle-free intravenous connector device. The flow rates and change in flow rates were then analysed.


RESULTS
The results showed a general agreement with Poiseuille's law. The needle-free connector slowed the rate of flow by up to 41.4% with the greatest effect on short, wide-bore devices. The addition of pressure had a greater effect on longer devices.


CONCLUSIONS
Short, wide cannulae should be used when rapid fluid resuscitation is required. Needle-free devices should not be used when rapid fluid resuscitation is needed.
Reddick
Andrew D
AD
Emergency Department, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK. andrew.reddick@nhs.net
Ronald
Julie
J
Morrison
William G
WG
D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000295:instrumentation*; D057785:Catheters; D004867:Equipment Design; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D057446:Hydrodynamics; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013997:Time Factors