5 Common Syringe Pump Myths Every Hospital Should Know

Syringe pumps play a central role in precise drug administration across critical and routine care.
Despite their value, several myths persist that may lead to hesitation or misinformed decisions in clinical settings.
Dispelling these myths helps healthcare institutions improve safety, efficiency, and patient care outcomes.

1. Syringe Pumps Are Only Needed in Intensive Care Units

Many assume syringe pumps are exclusively used in ICUs due to their accuracy requirements.
While they are vital in critical care, syringe pumps also support oncology, paediatrics, anaesthesia, and palliative medicine.
From slow infusions to controlled sedation, these devices serve multiple departments with reliable performance.

2. Manual Infusion Is Just as Reliable as a Syringe Pump

A common belief is that manual delivery of medication can match the consistency of syringe pumps.
However, manual methods risk dosage variability, timing errors, and inconsistencies in flow rates.
Syringe pumps ensure a steady, programmable infusion rate, reducing risks and enhancing clinical precision.

3. Syringe Pumps Are Too Complex for Daily Use

Some clinicians believe syringe pumps are complicated to operate, requiring advanced training.
Modern syringe pump designs focus on user-friendly interfaces, pre-set programmes, and streamlined setup.
With minimal guidance, staff can safely manage infusions, improving workflow and reducing operational stress.

4. Syringe Pumps Cannot Be Trusted for Paediatric or Neonatal Care

There's a concern that syringe pumps may not handle the fine dosing needed in neonates or infants.
On the contrary, syringe pumps are specifically engineered to deliver micro-volume infusions with utmost accuracy.
When used correctly, they minimise medication errors and offer life-saving precision in sensitive care units.

5. All Syringe Pumps Are the Same—Any Model Will Do

Some procurement teams may view syringe pumps as interchangeable, focusing only on cost.
Yet, performance, alarm systems, dosing precision, and software compatibility vary greatly between models.
Choosing a reputable manufacturer ensures that healthcare teams get devices built to meet clinical and regulatory standards.

Choosing the Right Syringe Pump Matters

• High-quality syringe pumps enhance workflow, reduce patient risk, and increase staff confidence.
• They offer reliable alarms, pressure sensors, and advanced safety protocols for complex treatments.
• Considerations like battery life, display clarity, and multi-language support also improve usability.

Safety and Training: The Backbone of Syringe Pump Efficiency

• Proper training on syringe pump usage reduces misuse and increases confidence across departments.
• Built-in safety checks, air-in-line detection, and occlusion alarms support clinical teams under pressure.
• Manufacturers that provide clinical education alongside their devices offer added value to hospitals.

Integration with Broader Hospital Systems

• Smart syringe pumps often integrate with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and drug libraries.
• They enhance medication tracking, improve audit readiness, and support compliance standards.
• Facilities using integrated systems benefit from reduced documentation errors and better care continuity.

The Impact of Dispelling Syringe Pump Myths

• Dispelling myths leads to more informed procurement decisions and improved patient care strategies.
• It encourages the use of syringe pumps in areas previously overlooked, from ambulatory care to home settings.
• Trust in the right equipment supports both front-line staff and the patients they serve.

Supporting Healthcare with the Right Technology

• Not all syringe pumps are built equal—clinicians and biomedical teams must evaluate quality carefully.
• Durability, service availability, and compliance with international standards should guide choices.
• Trusted manufacturers contribute to safer care environments and better patient experiences.

Conclusion

Modern hospitals require dependable equipment that aligns with both clinical needs and evolving healthcare standards.
Syringe pumps are indispensable tools that must be selected with insight, not assumption.
Akas Infusion manufactures world-class drug delivery devices such as volumetric infusion pumps, built to meet the stringent demands of today’s medical institutions.

Partnering with manufacturers who prioritise accuracy, usability, and safety empowers hospitals to deliver the highest standard of care with confidence.