Flow continuity of infusion systems at low flow rates

Infusion of fluids and drugs at very low rates may be necessary in neonatal intensive care. Marked haemodynamic fluctuations occurring during the infusion of inotropes have been shown to be due to the sticking of the plunger in the barrel of syringes used in syringe drivers. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration has recommended the use of volumetric or peristaltic pumps in these circumstances. We tested a number of infusion systems and found that 1. some syringes give continuous flow at low rates, and would be suitable for the delivery of inotropes, and 2. some infusion pumps provide non-continuous flow at low rates, and would not be satisfactory for the infusion of inotropes.