Hi Mike,
In 2004 I carryed out a syringe/infusion pump tender for our new Heart & Lung Centre. After an extensive evaluation we decided to go with Braun. We purchased 287x Perfusor Space (syringe) pumps, 75x Infusomat Space (volumetric) pumps and 69x Space Stations (docking stations). We were probable the first hospital in the UK to go with their new range of pumps particularly regards to a large volume.
Some of the main criteria why we chose Braun was:
1) The syringe and volumetric pumps look identical, i.e. the controls and operation of these devices are the same....which has huge advantages from a training point of view (particularly when around 400 new staff had to be trained which the Braun's trainers carried out extremley well) including benefits from a clinical safety side.
2) Due to the fact that our patients are transfered alot i.e. Ward to Theatres to CCU etc with pumps, manual handling/transfer of pumps was an important factor we took into great consideration. With the new Braun space pumps being one of the most compact and light pumps on the market was another advantage, not forgetting their well designed docking stations.
3) Since at the time we were going to go with a clinical information system, the importance of a good interface had to exist with the docking stations. Brauns docking stations had one of the most comprehensive interfacing connections available i.e. inc USB, wireless connection which came out on top.
4) Reducing drug error was another key criteria and Braun like the other manufacturers had a good software package.
As you all know with any new product/software release you will get teething problems, and as Topper mentions above we did experience these as you would expect, which we envisgaed and took into account from the onset of going with Braun. However what is more important is how the company deals with the problems. The reason why General ICU went back to using their P7000 pumps was due to the cancelation of the merger.
The feedback I can give you after having these pumps for nearly 2 years now and working with Braun to resolve the issues as a partnership, I can list below:
a) Regards the pumps Braun have carryed out a number of software/hardware upgrades which have made them more robust and reliable. At present we are in the process of implementing their Drug Library sotware in their pumps.
b) Regards the back up support we have had from Braun as a company, I can honestly say has been excellent, i.e. from their Sales, Clinical Trainers and their Technical Support. I make this statement in light of dealing with medical companies now for over 18 years and having carried out in excess of 70 equipment tenders worth £8million pounds in 2004 for our Heart & Lung Centre.
I hope this feedback is of some value and do apreciate that every hospital is different with different criteria that needs to be met. Please feel free to email me if you require further information.
Regards
Kam
