Intrafix® Safeset infusion device: an operating testing.

Introduction: The administration of intravenous medications is one of the most frequent nursing interventions in the daily care, in fact it is estimated that approximately 80% of patients require some form of intravenous therapy. Objective: The aim of this study is to test a device for gravity infusions with new features: an hydrophilic depth filter membrane that maintains the tubing completely filled with fluid, stopping the air in case of emptied fluid container, and a protective cap lined with a bacteria-tight hydrophobic membrane placed on the Luer Lock fitting, that stops fluid leaking and protects against contamination. Materials and methods: A comparative assessment between two gravity infusion devices (Intrafix® Safeset vs standard infusion device) was conducted with an 16 items ad hoc questionnaire. 100 nurses from 14 different medical-surgical specialty areas of an Italian university hospital were enrolled as testers. Results: The new device received a statistically significant positive assessment for each of the primary test endpoints: ease of use, patient and operator safety, and timesaving. Discussion: A gravity infusion device, that incorporates a locking systems of air entrance or fluid leaking from the infusion line, can ensure the safety of operators and patients and save time.