What Researchers Did
Researchers tested six Atom 235 syringe infusion pumps under hyperbaric conditions of 2.8 atmospheres absolute using a gravimetric method.
What They Found
They found a small but significant reduction in infused volume from the Atom 235 syringe infusion pumps during a 30-minute period under hyperbaric conditions of 2.8 atmospheres absolute. This altered delivery of medication may contribute to hemodynamic instability in inotrope-dependent patients treated in hyperbaric chambers.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was not conducted in Canada or by Canadian researchers.
Study Limitations
The study acknowledged that a physiological effect of hyperbaric treatment on patients' hemodynamic instability could not be excluded, making it difficult to isolate pump performance as the sole cause.