Infusion set

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Infusion set is a medical device used to deliver fluids into a patient's body in a controlled manner. It is commonly used in intravenous therapy to administer medications and replace fluids. The set includes a spike, a tube, a roller clamp, a needle, and a connector.

Components[edit | edit source]

The spike is the sharp point that pierces the fluid container. The tube is a flexible plastic line that carries the fluid from the container to the patient. The roller clamp is a device that controls the flow rate of the fluid. The needle is a sharp instrument that pierces the patient's skin and vein. The connector is a device that connects the infusion set to the patient's catheter or cannula.

Types[edit | edit source]

There are several types of infusion sets, including:

  • Primary infusion sets: These are used to deliver the main fluid or medication.
  • Secondary infusion sets: These are used to deliver additional fluids or medications.
  • Extension sets: These are used to extend the length of the infusion set.
  • Y-site infusion sets: These have a Y-shaped connector that allows two fluids to be infused simultaneously.
  • Pump infusion sets: These are used with an infusion pump to control the flow rate of the fluid.

Use[edit | edit source]

Infusion sets are used in various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care. They are used for a variety of purposes, such as:

Risks[edit | edit source]

While infusion sets are generally safe, they can pose some risks, including:

  • Infection: If the infusion set is not properly cleaned or inserted, it can introduce bacteria into the patient's bloodstream, leading to an infection.
  • Air embolism: If air gets into the infusion set, it can enter the patient's bloodstream and cause an air embolism.
  • Infiltration: If the needle is not properly inserted into the vein, the fluid can leak into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling and discomfort.

See also[edit | edit source]

Infusion set Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Admin, Prab R. Tumpati, MD