| The IV Evaporative
Cooling System (IVECS™) was developed to prevent IV fluids from
reaching excessively hot and potentially dangerous temperatures.
Studies show that excessively hot IV fluids can cause tissue damage and
hemolysis. Hot fluids are also counter-productive when treating heat
casualties. When operating in a desert or any low humidity hot
environment this becomes a serious concern.
The IVECS’ efficient design maintains fluids at a safe temperature
for up to 18 hours without additional cooling assistance. The cooling
systems are cost effective and re-usable. They can easily be converted
to a pressure infuser with the addition of a standard blood pressure
cuff. It will accomodate both 500 ml and 1000 ml bags. The IVECS™
provides an effective, power free means of delivering IV fluids at a
safe temperature under adverse conditions and in harsh climates.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The IVECS™ does not need to be cooled prior to inserting the IV bag.
The only step required is to soak the pouch for approximately 15
minutes. It is not like a cold pack that absorbs or transfers heat
energy from one mass to another to cool. The pouch cools through the
method of evaporation. The temperature is controlled by the movement of
water in the form of gas traveling over the surface area of the IV bag.
While the circulation of air around the bag is important to allow
maximum efficiency, it is not required.
The IVECS™ is an essential piece of equipment for any care provider operating in extreme conditions.
According to guidelines established by the leading authority on
patient care and safety in the US, fluids stored at ambient
temperatures in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other desert areas around the
world are not maintained at a safe temperature. The average daily
temperatures in these areas can be in excess of 54º C (130º F). Other
studies indicate that the administration of fluids at temperatures
exceeding 52.2º C (126º F) can damage tissue and blood cells. While
forward surgical units, combat support hospitals, and vehicle based
heath care providers have the ability to store fluids at safe
temperatures, the combat medic or wilderness medical provider do not.
Recent reports from Iraq have shown the IVECS™ to maintain fluids at
temperatures well below the established maximum. One soldier reported a
temperature of 35.5 C (96º F). This demonstrates the impact of the
addition of a light breeze and occasional shade, which make the IVECS™
even more effective.
Tests conducted by USAMRMC (US Army Medical Research & Material
Command) proved the IVECS™ effective in extremely harsh, unrealistic
conditions. The bag was tested over a period of 13.5 hours at a
temperature of 54º C (130º F) and a maximum of 5% humidity with no
wind. The chart below displays the results of the test.
Within 2.5 hours, the control bag was already at ambient temperature
54º C (130º F). The bag stored in the IVECS™ was only 43.3º C (110º F)
and then began a very slow climb to a maximum temperature of 50º C
(122º F), four degrees below the maximum recommended temperature for
blood products and fluids.
Operating Room Risk Management (March, 2006)
|
