Detection of fluid flow faults in the parenteral administration of fluids

Abstract From the Canadian patent

This invention is directed to a method and system for evaluating the fluid communication between a parenteral fluid delivery system and a patient's blood vessel. In accordance with the invention one or more, fluid flow pulses are applied to the fluid within the delivery system. Both positive and negative fluid flow pulses may be applied. The pressure response to the pulses under conditions of normal, unimpeded fluid flow is significantly different than the pressure response to such pulses when an infiltration or other fluid flow fault has occurred and this difference is used to detect fluid faults.