Abstract
Abstract ObjectivesPreparation of 5-FU elastomeric pumps is a time-consuming activity inducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Our unit has developed an automated filling system consisting of two peristaltic pumps (one for the diluent, one for the cytotoxic drug). The objective was to validate the accuracy of the assembly and evaluate the impact of automation on the compounding time, occurrence of MSDs and cost of preparation.MethodsAccuracy was determined by calculating the total error on the volumes injected by the pumps. Measurements were made for 2 brands (AMF, Baxter), 3 different volumes; repeated 3 times at 3 times of the day. The time-saving study compared 24 measurements in manual filling and 24 in automated mode. Impact of automation on the occurrence of MSDs was evaluated by a self-assessment questionnaire. Finally, a comparison between the price of a manually prepared elastomeric pump and an automated prepared elastomeric pump was performed.ResultsVolumes administered by the pumps were accurate (total error < 2.5%). Preparation time was divided by 2. Occurrence of MSD decreased (8.7 manual filling vs. 23.5/28 automated filling). Overcost was moderate (14.7% for AMF; 10.3% for Baxter).ConclusionsUsing peristaltic pumps, 5FU preparation was optimized for moderate additional cost.
Highlights
Anticancer treatments present a risk both for the personnel who prepare the treatment by handling cytotoxic drugs and for the treated patient in case of preparation errors [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8].The risk of error is all the greater as the number of anticancer preparations increases from year to year and the preparations must be carried out faster, which increases the mechanical stress and chemical contamination risk of the manipulators.Portable elastomeric pumps with different volume reservoirs and that operate at different flow rates are marketed, adaptable to each patient’s therapy needs [9]
The objective was to validate the accuracy of the assembly and evaluate the impact of automation on the compounding time, occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and cost of preparation
Accuracy of the volumes delivered by the peristaltic pumps
Summary
Anticancer treatments present a risk both for the personnel who prepare the treatment by handling cytotoxic drugs and for the treated patient in case of preparation errors [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8].The risk of error is all the greater as the number of anticancer preparations increases from year to year and the preparations must be carried out faster, which increases the mechanical stress and chemical contamination risk of the manipulators.Portable elastomeric pumps with different volume reservoirs and that operate at different flow rates are marketed, adaptable to each patient’s therapy needs (different doses and administration times) [9]. No manipulation is required after connection to the patient, reducing the risk of subsequent contamination. One of the disadvantages of elastomeric pumps is the variability of the infusion flow rate. This rate varies depending on several factors including temperature, viscosity, and height of the reservoir and the Luer lock connector [10]. The administration of drugs requiring patient monitoring cannot be done via such a pump. This does not pose a problem for the administration of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) [9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call