Evaluation of the FASTSTART mode for reducing start-up delay in syringe pump infusion systems

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the IVAC (R) P7000 FASTSTAR T mode with regard to start-up performance in a 50-ml infusion syringe at a flow rate of 1 ml.h(-1). Methods: The time from depression of the start button to first fluid flow ( T-1) and to establishment of a pre-set flow rate (T-2) were gravimetrically recorded with and without FASTSTART and wi;h and without priming of the in fusion system with a 1-ml fluid bolus prior to connection of the infusion l ine to the patient. Results: FASTSTART significantly reduced start-up times in the unprimed spr inge pump infusion system from (mean [SD]) 9.4 (6.0) to (3.5) min for T-1 a nd from 21.8 (9.8) to 9.4 (6.2) min for T-2 (all p <0.001). The greatest im provement in shortening of T-1 and T-2 was Obtained when the system was pri med prior to starting (p <0.0001). After priming the infusion system, FASTS TART shortened T by some 50% from 1.4 (1.4) to 0.7 (0.6) min. Conclusion: Our data indicate that the FASTSTART procedure is effective and that substantial improvements can be obtained by priming the system prior to starting.