Many hospitals and healthcare facilities do not own all of their medical equipment—a fact that often surprises people. For high-cost devices like infusion pumps, renting can sometimes be more practical than purchasing. Whether a medical facility chooses to rent or buy depends on usage, budget, and long-term operational needs.
This guide explains what infusion pumps are, compares renting versus buying, and outlines key maintenance considerations to help healthcare providers make an informed decision.
What Is an Infusion Pump?
An infusion pump is a medical device used to deliver fluids—such as medications, nutrients, or saline—into a patient’s body in precise, controlled amounts. These pumps are widely used in hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare settings because they allow for safe and accurate drug administration that would be difficult or impossible to achieve manually.
Infusion pumps come in many types, including:
- Large-volume pumps
- Ambulatory (portable) pumps
- Elastomeric pumps
- Insulin pumps
- Home infusion pumps
Depending on the treatment and patient condition, infusion pumps may be operated by trained healthcare professionals or by patients themselves. Pumps can also be stationary or portable, offering flexibility based on clinical needs.
Benefits and Safety Features of Infusion Pumps
Infusion pumps allow medications to be delivered in extremely small, precise doses and can be programmed to administer fluids at scheduled intervals. This precision improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of dosing errors.
Most modern infusion pumps include built-in safety features such as:
- Alarms that detect air in the tubing or blockages
- Visual and audible alerts for system malfunctions
- Smart pump technology that helps prevent unsafe dosage settings
Because each pump model has unique features, maintenance requirements, and sanitization guidelines, it’s important to understand these factors before renting or purchasing equipment.
Renting vs. Buying Infusion Pumps
Healthcare facilities often own a limited number of infusion pumps and rent additional units when demand increases. Both options have advantages and drawbacks.
When Renting an Infusion Pump Makes Sense
Renting infusion pumps is a cost-effective solution for short-term or fluctuating needs. Rental programs are typically available on daily, weekly, or monthly terms, allowing facilities to scale equipment use without a large upfront investment.
Additional benefits of renting include:
- Cleaning, calibration, and preventative maintenance handled by the rental provider
- Reduced responsibility for repairs and compliance testing
- Immediate access to equipment when patient volume increases
One potential downside is that rented pumps may be older models that lack newer features. For this reason, facilities should confirm the model type and year before renting.
When Buying an Infusion Pump Is the Better Choice
Purchasing infusion pumps is often more economical for long-term or high-usage scenarios. Over time, rental fees can exceed the cost of buying new equipment.
Advantages of purchasing include:
- Full integration with hospital systems and networks
- Greater control over equipment availability
- Long-term cost savings for frequently used devices
When buying, infusion pump suppliers typically assist with system integration, staff training, and ongoing support.
Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy depends on the facility’s patient population, treatment types, and financial strategy.
Infusion Pump Maintenance and Safety Considerations
Proper maintenance is critical to patient safety. A comprehensive infusion pump maintenance strategy should account for:
- Manufacturer recommendations
- Staff experience with infusion equipment
- Risks associated with improper use or delayed maintenance
Manufacturers generally recommend routine preventative maintenance rather than waiting for equipment failure. Poorly maintained infusion pumps can pose serious safety risks to patients.
Cleaning and Maintaining Infusion Pumps
Regular cleaning and disinfection are essential parts of infusion pump maintenance.
Best practices include:
- Cleaning all components—including wheels, stands, and control panels—after each use
- Using manufacturer-approved disinfectants or EPA-approved cleaning products
- Avoiding unapproved chemicals that may damage surfaces
- Training staff on proper “before-use” and “after-use” cleaning procedures
After use, pumps should be stored in designated cleaning or storage areas to prevent contamination. While these steps are time-consuming, they are essential for compliance and patient safety.
Facilities should consider whether their staff has the time and resources to manage these responsibilities internally or whether renting equipment may reduce operational burden.
Final Thoughts
Choosing whether to rent or buy infusion pumps is a strategic decision that impacts patient care, budgets, and staff workload. By evaluating usage patterns, maintenance capabilities, and long-term costs, healthcare providers can select the option that best supports their clinical and operational goals.
If you have questions about renting or buying infusion pumps—or need assistance selecting the right equipment—contact a medical supply specialist for expert guidance.