Utilization of rapid infusion system with cold saline in the induction of therapeutic hypothermia

Abstract

Objective To examine the cooling effectiveness of a rapid infusion system (RIS) during induction of therapeutic hypothermia. Methods This laboratory study simulated the effect of three fluid delivery methods: rapid dripping without any other equipment (control); RIS; pressure bag. Cold energy loss (℃ × min) was calculated as: (temperature of the proximal thermoprobe – temperature of the distal thermoprobe) × (total infusion time). Results Infusion time was significantly shorter and cold energy loss significantly lower in the RIS group than in the two other groups. Conclusions RIS preserves the cold energy of fluid more effectively than pressure bag or control. RIS allows for rapid infusion at a constant pressure and can be easily applied in an emergency setting.