Intravenous Pressure Assembly

Abstract

The intravenous IV pressure assembly includes a body, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly being configured as a pressurized vessel. An IV set having the IV pressure assembly and a method of operating the IV pressure assembly are also provided.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 296,021, entitled “INTRAVENOUS PRESSURE ASSEMBLY,” filed on January 3, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to intravenous (IV) sets, and more particularly to pressurized devices for IV sets. [Background technology]

[0003] Medical care often involves infusing medical fluids (e.g., blood, plasma, saline) into patients using IV catheters that are connected to a fluid source, e.g., an IV blood bag, by placing flexible tubing and fittings commonly referred to as an "IV set." During surgery, medical fluids may be needed instantly at greatly increased flow rates, as reduced time to transfusion has been associated with reduced risk of mortality in trauma patients. Typical IV sets use cylindrical hand pumps that are repeatedly squeezed by hand to rapidly increase fluid flow rates, resulting in muscle fatigue. The geometry of the cylindrical hand pump limits the amount of fluid as well as how quickly new fluid can enter the pump chamber from the fluid source as the pump chamber is squeezed and then returns to its cylindrical shape. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For these reasons, it is desirable to provide an IV set with a pressurization device to reduce hand muscle fatigue, to increase the volume of fluid that can be accepted into the hand pump after being squeezed, and to decrease the time it takes to fill the hand pump after being squeezed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an intravenous IV pressure assembly includes a body, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir, wherein the IV pressure assembly is configured as a pressurized container.

[0006] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an IV system includes an IV set having one or more IV components and one or more IV tubing, and an IV pressure assembly including a body, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly being a pressurized container configured to force fluid in the fluid reservoir into the IV set at a fluid flow rate that exceeds one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate and a maximum infusion pump fluid flow rate.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of operating an IV pressure assembly includes coupling the IV pressure assembly to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly having a body having a pressurized container, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple with the fluid reservoir. The method also includes opening a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir, applying pressure to the fluid reservoir through the fluid flow path, and ceasing to apply pressure to the fluid reservoir by one of emptying the pressurized fluid in the pressurized container, disconnecting the connector from the fluid reservoir, adjusting a valve of the IV pressure assembly to a closed position, and placing a seal in an occluded position in the fluid flow path.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0009] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative patient care system having four fluid infusion pumps, each connected to a fluid supply for pumping the contents of the fluid supply to a patient. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a top view of a typical assembled IV infusion set with hand pump. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of a pressure assembly and a fluid reservoir according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an IV set having the pressure assembly and fluid reservoir of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the IV set and pressure assembly of FIG. 3 connecting the infusion pump to a patient, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The following detailed description describes various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. Thus, dimensions are provided as non-limiting examples with respect to certain embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology.

[0012] It should be understood that the present disclosure includes examples of the subject technology and does not limit the scope of the appended claims. Various aspects of the subject technology are disclosed herein according to specific, but non-limiting examples. Various embodiments described in the present disclosure can be implemented in various ways or in modified forms according to a desired application or implementation.

[0013] Referring now more particularly to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar or corresponding elements among the several views, FIG. 1 shows a patient care system 20 having four infusion pumps 22, 24, 26 and 28, which are fluidly connected to upstream fluid lines 30, 32, 34 and 36, respectively. The four infusion pumps 22, 24, 26 and 28 are also fluidly connected to downstream fluid lines 31, 33, 35 and 37, respectively. The fluid lines may be any type of fluid conduit, such as an IV administration set, through which fluid may flow. It should be understood that any of a variety of pump mechanisms may be used, including syringe pumps.

[0014] The fluid supplies 38, 40, 42 and 44, which can take a variety of forms but are shown in this case as bottles, are inverted and suspended above the pumps. The fluid supplies can also take the form of bags or other types of containers containing syringes. Together, the patient care system 20 and the fluid supplies 38, 40, 42 and 44 are mounted to a roller stand, an IV pole 46, a table top, or the like.

[0015] Separate infusion pumps 22, 24, 26 and 28 are used to infuse each of the fluids from the fluid supplies into the patient. The infusion pumps are flow control devices that act on respective fluid lines to move fluid from the fluid supplies through the fluid lines to the patient 48. Because individual pumps are used, each pump can be individually set to the pumping or operating parameters required to infuse a particular medical fluid from that fluid supply into the patient at a particular rate prescribed for that fluid by a physician. Such medical fluids may include medications or nutrients or other fluids. The infusion pumps 22, 24, 26 and 28 are controlled by a pump control unit 60.

[0016] Fluid supplies 38, 40, 42 and 44 are coupled to electronic data tags 81, 83, 85 and 87, respectively, or to electronic transmitters. Any device or component associated with the infusion system may be equipped with an electronic data tag, reader, or transmitter.

[0017] A typical infusion set may be a gravity set, which does not require the use of an infusion pump. For example, any of the fluid supplies 38, 40, 42 and 44 may be connected directly to the patient 48 via a gravity IV set, with gravity causing fluid to flow through the infusion set and into the patient 48 without the aid of a pump.

[0018] Typically, medical fluid administration sets have many more components than are shown in FIG. 1, such as those shown in FIG. 2. IV sets can be formed from any combination of infusion components and tubing. Typically, the infusion components and tubing are disposable products that are used once and then discarded. The infusion components and tubing may be formed from any suitable material (e.g., plastic, silicone, rubber), and many or all of the infusion components and tubing are transparent or translucent to allow for viewing of the internal fluid flow or level.

[0019] 2, the IV set 120 may include a drip chamber 130, a hand pump 140, and a roller clamp 150 connected together by tubing 160. The IV set 120 may also include a Y-site 170 having a Y-junction with a needleless connector 175, as well as a Luer lock connector 180 at the end of the IV set 120. The Luer lock connector 180 may be used, for example, to connect to a catheter that is inserted into a patient. The IV set 120 may include additional infusion components and may be formed with any combination of components and tubing 160.

[0020] During use, the IV set 120 is connected to an IV fluid bag (e.g., a blood bag) via the drip chamber 130, and the luer lock connector 180 is connected to a catheter that is placed in a patient's vein. Thus, fluid flows from the fluid bag, through the drip chamber 130, to the hand pump 140, and out the luer lock connector 180 through the remainder of the IV set 120. When the hand pump 140 is squeezed, the volume of fluid placed in the body 142 of the hand pump 140 is forced out the outlet check valve 144 and downstream through the IV set 120. When the hand pump 140 is released (e.g., when you stop squeezing), the body 142 of the hand pump 140 re-inflates and draws in a new volume of fluid through the inlet check valve 146. This squeezing cycle can be repeated as often as necessary to move fluid from one or more fluid bags into the patient as quickly as possible.

[0021] Hand pump 140 is a typical flexible cylinder that is continuously squeezed by a user with one hand and released before activating or squeezing the hand pump again. However, the smooth cylindrical shape of hand pump 140 provides an ergonomic shape to be gripped by the hand and does not provide interior features that should promote downstream fluid flow. Also, squeezable cylindrical geometries are often uncomfortable for extended periods of use and can quickly lead to fatigue in the user's hands. Additionally, cylindrical geometries rely on the pressure of the fluid flow entering the cylinder to collapse the cylinder with a squeeze and then expand the cylinder back to its original cylindrical shape and fill with fluid.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cylindrical hand pump may be augmented or replaced with a pressure assembly having a pressurized container and a connector for coupling to a fluid reservoir, such as an IV blood bag. For example, the connection may be at the top of a hanging IV blood bag, but the connection may be at any suitable location on the fluid reservoir. The pressure assembly, when releasably coupled to the fluid reservoir, allows for pressure to be immediately introduced in a downstream direction into the fluid reservoir. For example, the pressurized container of the pressure assembly may be configured such that the fluid flow path of the coupling may be released (e.g., allowing pressure flow from the pressure assembly to the fluid reservoir) when coupled to the fluid reservoir, when a seal is removed from an already coupled pressure assembly, and when a valve of an already coupled pressure assembly is opened. This reduces fatigue on the user's hands from pumping fluid, as well as accelerating the refill cycle in which new fluid is forced into the hand pump body when the hand pump is augmented. This would otherwise eliminate fatigue on the user's hands from pumping fluid as well as accelerate fluid flow through the IV set when replacing a hand pump.

[0023] As shown in Figure 3, a pressure assembly 200 is provided in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The pressure assembly 200 may take the form of a pressurized vessel including a body 210, an outlet port 220, and a connector 230. As shown, the connector 230 of the pressure assembly 200 may be coupled to a connector 192 of a fluid reservoir 190 (e.g., an IV blood bag).

[0024] In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may contain a pressurized gas (e.g., CO2, O2) suitable for use with a medical fluid. In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 is configured to introduce only a pressure differential in the fluid reservoir 190 without introducing a gas into the medical fluid contained therein. In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may contain a pressurized fluid (e.g., saline) suitable for mixing with the medical fluid, which may prevent the introduction of air or bubbles into the medical fluid.

[0025] Body 210 may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., aluminum, steel, alloys, hard plastic) configured to be in contact with a pressurized fluid (e.g., pressurized gas, pressurized saline). Body 210 may be sized and shaped to any suitable shape, such as, for example, a cylindrical can, although body 210 may have any suitable shape (e.g., spherical, elliptical).

[0026] The connector 230 may be any suitable connector for coupling to a counter (or mating) connector 192 of the fluid reservoir 190. For example, the connector 230 may be a male luer connector configured to mate with the connector 192 in the form of a female luer connector, or the connector 230 may be a female luer connector configured to mate with the connector 192 in the form of a male luer connector. As another example, the connector 230 may be a needleless connector configured to mate with the connector 192 in the form of a needleless port, or the connector 230 may be a needleless port configured to mate with the connector 192 in the form of a needleless connector. As another example, the connector 230 may be a female snap connector configured to couple with a male snap connector of the fluid reservoir, or the connector 230 may be a male snap connector configured to mate with the connector 192 in the form of a female snap connector. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector 230 may be a spike configured to penetrate the fluid reservoir 190 instead of connecting to a counter connector. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outlet port 220 may be configured as the connector 230. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may have only the outlet port 220 and not the connector 230.

[0027] Thus, the interconnection between connector 230 and connector 192 may be a quick connect design that allows for fast connection of pressure assembly 200 when increased fluid flow is required as quickly as possible. For example, when connector 230 mates with connector 192, a fluid flow path is opened between pressure assembly 200 and fluid reservoir 190, allowing continuous and / or constant pressure to be provided within fluid reservoir 190 until the pressurized fluid is exhausted or connector 230 is disconnected from connector 192.

[0028] In aspects of the disclosure, the connector 230 can have a seal that covers or blocks the fluid path from the pressure assembly 200. For example, the pressure assembly 200 can be connected to the fluid reservoir 190 at any time before use of the pressure assembly 200 is required. In this case, when additional pressure from the pressure assembly 200 is needed, the seal is removed, allowing continuous and / or constant pressure in the fluid reservoir 190 until the pressurized fluid is exhausted, the connector 230 is disconnected from the connector 192, or the seal is replaced in place.

[0029] In aspects of the disclosure, the connector 230 can have a valve disposed in a fluid path from the pressure assembly 200. For example, the pressure assembly 200 can be connected to the fluid reservoir 190 with the valve in a closed position any time before use of the pressure assembly 200 is required. In this way, when additional pressure from the pressure assembly 200 is needed, the valve can be adjusted (e.g., partially opened, fully opened) to provide continuous and / or constant pressure in the fluid reservoir 190 for each valve setting until the pressurized fluid is exhausted, the connector 230 is disconnected from the connector 192, or the valve is adjusted back to the closed position.

[0030] 4, the pressure assembly 200 can be part of an IV system 350. In this case, the pressure assembly 200 is configured to be directly coupled to a fluid reservoir 190 (e.g., an IV blood bag). The IV set 300 can include a drip chamber 130, a hand pump 140, a roller clamp 150, a Y-junction 170 having a needleless port 175, and a luer connector 180, all of which are connected together by IV tubing 160 and attached to the fluid reservoir 190 (e.g., to a fluid outlet of the fluid reservoir 190). Thus, the IV system 350 can be a combination of the IV set 300 including the pressure assembly 200 and the fluid reservoir 190.

[0031] In aspects of the present disclosure, pressure assembly 200 may be used in conjunction with hand pump 140. For example, during use of IV set 300, a user (e.g., clinician, nurse) may initiate squeezing and releasing hand pump 140 when increased fluid flow is needed, as well as opening a fluid path between pressure assembly 200 and fluid reservoir 190 (e.g., removing a seal from pressure assembly 200 or opening a valve in pressure assembly 200). Thus, by providing a rapid burst of pressure from pressure assembly 200 that may be applied to IV set 300 when needed (e.g., repeatedly), pressure assembly 200 may increase fluid flow rate and reduce the amount of time a user needs to manually squeeze hand pump 140.

[0032] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may be used in place of the hand pump 140. For example, the IV set 300 (e.g., modified IV set 300) without the hand pump 140. In this case, during use of the modified IV set 300, the user (e.g., clinician, nurse) can simply open the fluid path between the pressure assembly 200 and the fluid reservoir 190 (e.g., remove a seal from the pressure assembly 200 or open a valve of the pressure assembly 200) when increased fluid flow is required. Thus, by providing a quick burst of pressure from the pressure assembly 200 that can be applied to the modified IV set 300 when needed (e.g., open once and open and close repeatedly), the pressure assembly 200 can increase fluid flow rate and eliminate the need for the user to manually squeeze the hand pump.

[0033] In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may be directly connected to the fluid reservoir 190 as a disposable reservoir combination 250 that is already connected when the fluid reservoir 190 is placed into service (e.g., an IV blood bag is hung and connected to an IV set). In this case, the IV set may be all of the components of the IV set 300 or modified IV set 300 except for the pressure assembly 200. Thus, when an existing IV bag becomes depleted as the IV set is being used to deliver fluid to a patient, the now empty IV bag can be quickly replaced with the disposable reservoir combination 250 (e.g., a full fluid reservoir 190 and connected pressure assembly 200) to continue delivering fluid via the IV set.

[0034] In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may be a stand-alone IV component that may be directly connected to the fluid reservoir 190 after the fluid reservoir 190 has been placed in service (e.g., an IV blood bag is hung and connected to an IV set). In this case, the IV system may include all of the components of the IV system 350 or modified IV system 350, except for the pressure assembly 200. Thus, when an existing IV bag is depleted in the IV system being used to deliver fluid to a patient, the emptied IV bag may be quickly replaced with a full fluid reservoir 190 to continue delivering fluid via the IV set. In this case, either the existing pressure assembly 200 may be disconnected from the emptied IV bag and connected to the full fluid reservoir 190, or a new pressure assembly 200 may be connected to the full fluid reservoir 190.

[0035] Thus, in aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 can be a stand-alone component that can be used with a single disposable fluid reservoir and discarded, that can be used with a disposable IV set (e.g., IV set 300) and discarded, that can be reused with multiple fluid reservoirs 190 and a single disposable IV set, or that can be reused with multiple fluid reservoirs 190 and multiple IV sets. In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 can be a separate component packaged with a disposable IV set (e.g., IV set 300), where the IV set and pressure assembly 200 are discarded when the disposable IV set reaches the end of its life (e.g., 24 hours, 72 hours, 7 days). In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 can be a separate component packaged with a fluid reservoir (e.g., IV bag 190), where the fluid reservoir and pressure assembly 200 are discarded when the fluid reservoir is empty and / or the pressure assembly is empty.

[0036] In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 may be cleaned and reused multiple times per medical cleaning requirement. For example, the pressure assembly 200 may be cleaned between each use as it is switched between fluid reservoirs 190. In another example, the pressure assembly 200 may be emptied, cleaned, and then refilled with new pressurized fluid for reuse.

[0037] In use, the IV set 300 and the pressure assembly 200 are each coupled to a fluid reservoir (e.g., IV bag 190) that contains a medical fluid (e.g., blood). In a non-activated state, the pressure assembly 200 does not apply pressure to the fluid reservoir 190, thus allowing fluid to flow to the IV set 300 at a rate set by a flow controller (e.g., roller clamp 150). When faster fluid flow is required, the pressure assembly 200 is activated (e.g., removing a seal from the pressure assembly 200 or opening a valve in the pressure assembly 200), thus increasing pressure into the fluid reservoir 190 and allowing fluid to be forced out of the fluid reservoir 190 faster. In aspects of the present disclosure, the non-activated state is achieved by the pressure assembly 200 not being coupled to the fluid reservoir 190, and the pressure assembly 200 is only coupled to the fluid reservoir 190 when activation of the pressure assembly 200 is desired. In this case, an increase in pressure into the fluid reservoir 190 occurs when the pressure assembly 200 is connected to the fluid reservoir 190 .

[0038] 5, the IV set 400 and pressure assembly 200 may be connected to a fluid source 38, with the IV set 400 connected to an infusion pump 260 system having two infusion pumps 262 and a controller 264, and a catheter 270 inserted into a patient 280. In this case, if the maximum fluid flow rate from the infusion pump system 260 is not sufficient, the pressure assembly 200 may be actuated (e.g., connected or disconnected) to force fluid out of the fluid source 38 faster. For example, the IV set 400 may be quickly disconnected from the infusion pump system 260 before using the pressure assembly 200, and / or the infusion pump system 260 may be set to neutral to allow free fluid flow from the fluid source 38 before using the pressure assembly 200.

[0039] In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 can include any suitable fastener for attaching the pressure assembly 200 to an IV pole 46, a bed, a surgical table, a fluid reservoir, etc. For example, the fastener can be a cradle, a hanger, a hook, Velcro®, adhesive, and / or other suitable fastener. In aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure assembly 200 can be configured to simply extend from the fluid reservoir without being attached to another object.

[0040] In aspects of the present disclosure, the geometry and / or shape of the body 210 may vary based on hand size and / or desired flow rate. For example, there may be small, medium, and large sizes for use by different sized users. In aspects of the present disclosure, the flow rate may be configured based on the size / shape of the body 210 and the diameter of the outlet port 220.

[0041] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a drug may be immediately administered to a patient by pressure assembly 200, which forces the drug through IV set 300 at a rate based on the pressure applied by pressure assembly 200.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the IV pressure assembly includes a body, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir, wherein the IV pressure assembly is configured as a pressurized container.

[0043] In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container contains a pressurized gas adapted to mix with the medical fluid in the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container is configured to introduce a pressure differential into the fluid reservoir without introducing gas into the medical fluid contained within the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container contains a pressurized fluid adapted to mix with the medical fluid in the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the connector is one of a male Luer connector configured to couple with a female Luer connector of the fluid reservoir and a female connector configured to couple with a male Luer connector of the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the connector is one of a female snap connector configured to couple with a male snap connector of the fluid reservoir and a male snap connector configured to couple with a female snap connector of the fluid reservoir. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the connector is one of a needleless connector configured to couple with a needleless port of the fluid reservoir and a needleless port configured to couple with a needleless connector of the fluid reservoir. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the connector is a spike configured to penetrate the fluid reservoir rather than couple with a counter connector. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the outlet port is configured as a connector.

[0044] In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container is configured to open a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container is configured to apply pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir until one of the pressurized fluid in the pressurized container is emptied and the connector is disconnected from the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container has a valve configured to block the fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir and the valve is in a closed position. In an aspect of the disclosure, a seal is configured to block the fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container is configured to apply pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir when the seal is removed until one of the seal is returned to a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the pressurized container is emptied, and the connector is disconnected from the fluid reservoir. In an aspect of the disclosure, the valve is configured to block a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir and the valve is in a closed position. In an aspect of the disclosure, the pressurized container is configured to apply pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir when the valve is adjusted to one of a partially open position and a fully open position until one of the valve is adjusted back to a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the pressurized container is emptied, and the connector is disconnected from the fluid reservoir.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, an IV system includes an IV set having one or more IV components and one or more IV tubes, and an IV pressure assembly having a body, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly being a pressurized container configured to force fluid in the fluid reservoir into the IV set at a fluid flow rate that exceeds one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate and a maximum infusion pump fluid flow rate.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, a method of operating an intravenous (IV) pressure assembly includes the steps of: connecting the IV pressure assembly to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly having a body having a pressurized container, an outlet port disposed on the body, and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to the fluid reservoir; opening a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir; applying pressure to the fluid reservoir through the fluid flow path; and ceasing to apply pressure to the fluid reservoir by one of emptying pressurized fluid in the pressurized container, disconnecting the connector from the fluid reservoir, adjusting a valve of the IV pressure assembly to a closed position, and placing a seal in an occluded position in the fluid flow path.

[0047] In an aspect of the disclosure, prior to opening the fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir, the method further comprises flowing fluid at a gravity based fluid flow rate to an IV set coupled to the fluid reservoir, and manipulating the IV pressure assembly to increase the fluid flow rate to be greater than one of a maximum gravity based fluid flow rate of the IV set, a maximum over gravity based fluid flow rate based on operation of a hand pump of the IV set, and a maximum infusion pump fluid flow rate based on an infusion pump coupled to the IV set. In an aspect of the disclosure, the method further comprises one of augmenting a hand pump of an IV set coupled to the fluid reservoir and replacing a hand pump of an IV set coupled to the fluid reservoir to increase the fluid flow rate and reduce fluid infusion time while reducing fatigue on the user's hands.

[0048] It is understood that any particular order or hierarchy of blocks in the disclosed process methods is illustrative of example approaches. Based on design or implementation preferences, it is understood that the particular order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes may be rearranged, or that not all of the illustrated blocks may be performed. In some implementations, any of the blocks may be performed simultaneously.

[0049] The present disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications of these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0050] Reference to a singular element is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." The term "several" refers to "one or more" unless specifically stated otherwise. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0051] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein can be considered at least equivalent.

[0052] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" preceding a series of items, with the term "or" separating any of the items, modifies the list as a whole and not each item in the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows for a meaning including at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" can refer to A only, B only, or C only, or any combination of A, B, and C.

[0053] A phrase such as "an aspect" does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure of an aspect may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. A phrase such as "an embodiment" does not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such an embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure of an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or to one or more examples. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an embodiment may refer to one or more examples, and vice versa. A phrase such as "an embodiment" does not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such an embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure of an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or to one or more examples. A configuration may provide one or more instances, and references to such a configuration may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0054] As used herein, the term "determine" or "determining" encompasses a wide variety of actions. For example, "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, generating, obtaining, looking up (e.g., searching in a table, database, or another data structure), ascertaining, etc., via hardware elements without user intervention. Also, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), etc., via hardware elements without user intervention. "Determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc., via hardware elements without user intervention.

[0055] As used herein, the term "providing" or "providing" encompasses a wide variety of actions. For example, "providing" can include storing a value at a location on a storage device for subsequent retrieval, transmitting a value directly to a recipient via at least one wired or wireless communication medium, transmitting or storing a criterion to a value, etc. "Providing" can also include encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, verifying, verifying, inserting, etc. via a hardware element.

[0056] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, locations, dimensions, sizes, and other specifications set forth in this specification (including the claims which follow) are approximate and not exact. In one aspect, the above specifications are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they relate and with those customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0057] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes disclosed is an illustration of an example approach. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously. Some or all of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed automatically without user intervention. The accompanying method claims, if any, present elements of the various steps, operations, or processes in a sample order, and are not limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0058] All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are intended to be expressly incorporated herein by reference and encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly set forth in the claims. A claim element is not to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112 unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or, in the case of a method claim, unless the element is recited using the phrase "step for". Moreover, to the extent that terms such as "include," "have," and the like are used, such terms are intended to be as inclusive as the term "comprise," since "comprise" is interpreted as a transitional term in the claims when used.

[0059] The Title, Background, Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings, and Abstract of this disclosure are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of this disclosure, not as limiting descriptions. This disclosure is submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it is recognized that in the Detailed Description, the description provides illustrative examples, and that various features have been grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed structure or operation. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter.

[0060] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and encompass all legal equivalents. Nonetheless, none of the claims are intended to, and should not be construed to, encompass subject matter that fails to meet the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103.

Claims

1. The main body, an outlet port disposed on the body; a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir; 1. An intravenous (IV) pressure assembly having: The IV pressure assembly is configured as a pressurized vessel.

2. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1 , wherein the pressurized container contains a pressurized gas suitable for mixing with a medical fluid in the fluid reservoir.

3. 10. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, wherein the pressurized vessel is configured to introduce a pressure differential into the fluid reservoir without introducing gas into a medical fluid contained within the fluid reservoir.

4. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1 , wherein the pressurized container contains a pressurized fluid suitable for mixing with a medical fluid in the fluid reservoir.

5. The connector comprises: a male Luer connector configured to couple with a female Luer connector of the fluid reservoir; and a female luer connector configured to couple with the male luer connector of the fluid reservoir; 2. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, wherein

6. The connector comprises: a female snap connector configured to couple with a male snap connector of the fluid reservoir; and a male snap connector configured to couple with the female snap connector of the fluid reservoir; 2. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, wherein

7. The connector comprises: a needleless connector configured to couple with a needleless port of the fluid reservoir; and a needleless port configured to couple with a needleless connector of the fluid reservoir; 2. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, wherein

8. 10. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector is a spike configured to pierce the fluid reservoir instead of connecting to a mating connector.

9. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1 , wherein the outlet port is configured as the connector.

10. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1 , wherein the pressurized container is configured to open a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir.

11. The pressurized container comprises: the pressurized fluid in the pressurized vessel is emptied; and The connector is disconnected from the fluid reservoir.

11. The IV pressure assembly of claim 10, configured to provide pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir until one of

12. 11. The IV pressure assembly of claim 10, further comprising a valve configured to block a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is connected to the fluid reservoir and the valve is in a closed position.

13. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a seal configured to block a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is coupled to the fluid reservoir.

14. The pressurized container, when the seal is removed, The seal is returned to a closed position. the pressurized fluid in the pressurized vessel is emptied; and The connector is disconnected from the fluid reservoir.

14. The IV pressure assembly of claim 13, configured to provide pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir until the pressure reaches one of:

15. 2. The IV pressure assembly of claim 1, further comprising a valve configured to block a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir when the connector is connected to the fluid reservoir and the valve is in a closed position.

16. The pressurized vessel is adapted to, when the valve is adjusted to one of a partially open position and a fully open position, The valve is adjusted back to a closed position. the pressurized fluid in the pressurized vessel is emptied; and The container is separated from the fluid reservoir.

16. The IV pressure assembly of claim 15, configured to provide pressure through the fluid flow path into the fluid reservoir until the pressure reaches one of:

17. One or more IV components, and One or more IV tubes and an IV set having Main unit, an outlet port disposed on the body; and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to a fluid reservoir; an IV pressure assembly having 1. An intravenous (IV) system comprising: An IV system, wherein the IV pressure assembly is a pressurized container configured to force fluid in the fluid reservoir into the IV set at a fluid flow rate that exceeds one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate and a maximum infusion pump fluid flow rate.

18. 1. A method of operating an intravenous (IV) pressure assembly, comprising: Connecting the IV pressure assembly to a fluid reservoir, the IV pressure assembly comprising: A body having a pressurized container; an outlet port disposed on the body; and a connector coupled to the outlet port, the connector configured to couple to the fluid reservoir; and opening a fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir; providing pressure within the fluid reservoir through the fluid flow path; ceasing to provide pressure in the fluid reservoir, Emptying the pressurized fluid from the pressurized vessel; disconnecting the connector from the fluid reservoir; adjusting the valve of the IV pressure assembly to a closed position; and placing a seal in said fluid flow path at an occlusion location; ceasing to provide pressure in the fluid reservoir by one of A method comprising:

19. Prior to opening the fluid flow path between the IV pressure assembly and the fluid reservoir, the method further comprises: flowing fluid through an IV set coupled to the fluid reservoir at a gravity based fluid flow rate; manipulating the IV pressure assembly, thereby controlling the fluid flow rate by: a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of said IV set; a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate based on operation of a hand pump of the IV set; and Maximum infusion pump fluid flow rate based on the infusion pump connected to the IV set and increasing the value of the first parameter to be greater than one of the first parameter, 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

20. augmenting a hand pump of an IV set connected to the fluid reservoir; and Replacing a hand pump of an IV set connected to said fluid reservoir. reducing hand fatigue of the user and increasing fluid flow rate to reduce fluid infusion time by one of 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

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