I.v. infusion devices: are they always justified?

Electronic infusion device (EID) use is increasing and contributes substantially to hospital costs, approximately $1,000,000 per year at the University of Michigan Hospitals. Only two studies have been conducted with the purpose of determining potential advantages of EID over less-expensive roller clamps. Neither clearly demonstrated that controllers are more beneficial than roller clamps. Pumps have not received this type of study. EID use should, therefore, be limited only to those situations in which they are decidedly advantageous.