Managing Gravity Infusion using a Mobile Application

Gravity infusion, also known as “the drip,” is a common and basic method for delivering fluids to a patient, without the use of any complex medical devices, such as an infusion pump or a syringe driver. Nevertheless there are many quite complex and error-prone steps involved in setting up a gravity infusion for the correct dose, and since there is no computer or similar technology involved to assist with the procedure, it can be difficult to guarantee the accuracy and consistency of the fluid delivery. This paper presents a new method for accurately setting gravity infusion drug delivery, based on a handheld mobile application that includes a novel approach to help estimate flow rate and double-check the steps involved in setting it up. We demonstrate how simple visual interfaces can play an important role in the healthcare setting, and we explain safety features that have been implemented to catch common errors and slips that can occur.