Transforming infusion therapy for patients and nurses
Radboudumc and Ivy Medical are collaborating to test and develop an innovative portable infusion pump, the Ivy Duo+. This new pump, based on innovative patented technology, aims to improve patient mobility, reduce disruptions during therapy, and alleviate the workload of nurses through automation. By enhancing infusion therapy practices, the partnership strives to advance healthcare delivery and address the current challenges in clinical and transmural settings.
Infusion therapy is widely used in hospitals, but the core technology has seen little innovation over the years. Current infusion pumps restrict patient movement and contribute to the workload of nursing staff, as they require nurses to perform many tasks manually. The Ivy Duo+ addresses these issues by allowing patients to move freely with a portable pump, which can be carried in a backpack or shoulder bag, thereby promoting quicker recovery. The pump's automation features reduce the number of tasks nurses need to perform. Additionally, the pump aims to minimize the frequency of alarms, leading to better patient sleep and reducing the risk of alarm fatigue among nurses. This innovation is crucial, considering the projected nursing shortage by 2031 in The Netherlands, where an estimated 98,000 full-time equivalents (FTE) will be needed.
The project involves several phases and expertise, with specific work packages led by different partners. Ivy Medical spearheads the development of the Ivy Duo+, while Radboudumc's IQ Health leads the pilot study. Health Innovation Labs focuses on creating a new care pathway for home-based infusion therapy. The collaboration also includes input from Hogeschool Arnhem Nijmegen and the home-care organization Pantein, ensuring comprehensive insights and outcomes.
The project's deliverables include a certified product, tested prototypes, and scientific publications. Upon completion, the Ivy Duo+ is expected to be a clinically deployable product that significantly enhances patient care and reduces nurse workload. The deployment of the Ivy Duo+ is projected to save over 20,000 nursing hours annually at Radboudumc alone, highlighting its potential for significant impact both nationally and internationally. By developing a new transmural care pathway, the project aims to facilitate the earlier discharge of infusion-dependent patients, ultimately improving healthcare efficiency and addressing the impending care crisis.
