Maintaining normothermia, increasing absorption rate, and decreasing recovery times are just a few of the many benefits that come with warming injection fluids. As a result, fluid warmers are common yet vital machines in medical facilities worldwide, with many makes and models to choose from. Despite the overwhelming number of warmers out there, this doesn’t reduce the need for quality warming cabinets, as selecting the right one is equally important. To help you narrow your options, let’s take a look at what you need to consider when choosing the best blood and fluid warmers for your facility.
What Is the Overall Cost?
The first, and arguably most important, factor to consider when choosing a fluid warmer is the cost of the machine. Your facility likely uses a lot of expensive equipment, but going over budget might not be feasible. However, you don’t want to look solely at the price tag. Buying the cheapest fluid warmer on the market can cause problems that will cost you more in the long run.
We recommend finding a fluid warmer with a solid warranty. Then, you won’t have to pay ridiculous amounts for an expensive model. If something goes wrong with the equipment, your warranty will cover issues like damages and mechanical errors.
How Easy Is It To Take Inventory?
In bustling, constantly changing environments like emergency rooms, being able to take quick stock of what you have is incredibly important. Some fluid warming cabinets have metal doors that you can’t see through, meaning you have to open and close them to take inventory. Not only does this take time, but constant opening and closing also lets out precious heat, tampering with the chamber’s temperature. If you work in a fast-paced facility, choose a fluid warming cabinet with a glass door for convenience.
Does Your Facility Need Portable or Stationary Fluid Warmers?
Fluid warmers can come in portable or stationary models, and some are better suited for emergency response teams and medical transport vehicles than others. If you need portable fluid warmers, you should consider whether the model is meant for ground or air travel. A warmer must also be durable and water-resistant. Some large cabinets come with mobile bases, but they’re clunky and difficult to move on a dime. Most major hospitals have a combination of portable and stationary fluid warmers.
Will You Use Your Fluid Warmer as a Blanket Warmer?
Fluid warmers can double as blanket warmers, allowing you to get the most out of your storage. However, the temperature you keep your fluids at may not be the temperature you want to keep your blankets at, or vice versa. If this is the case, fluid warming cabinets come with individually heated chambers that allow you to set the temperature for different items.
If this feature is too expensive, you may want to consider getting a smaller, separate cabinet as your blanket warmer. Countertop fluid warmers are ideal for facilities that need blanket and fluid warmers but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on two expensive cabinets.
What Is Your Desired Temperature Range?
Not all fluid warmers are the same or provide the same temperature ranges. Fluid warmer temperature ranges vary widely. Some models have a range of 90–135 degrees Fahrenheit, while others can reach beyond 160 degrees Fahrenheit! Not all of your fluids have the same heating requirements, so keep an eye on what the machine’s manual advertises. You may also want to consider investing in a fluid warmer with individually heated chambers so you can heat various fluids at once.
How Much Do You Intend To Store?
Once you’ve decided on your fluid warmer’s purpose, you should take a look at how much fluid you intend to store. You can do this by taking stock of how many injection fluids, irrigation solutions, and other fluids your facility uses daily. By calculating a weekly or monthly average, you can get a better idea of the best-sized fluid warmer. The last thing you want to do is spend extra money on a large cabinet only to use it at half capacity. Not only does this cost more money upfront, but it will also run up your facility’s electric bill unnecessarily.
How Easy Is It To Clean and Maintain?
Even if you manage to avoid any accidents, you will have to clean your fluid warmer regularly. That means disassembling parts, taking out shelves, cleaning all components, and disinfecting your warmer. The harder a model is to take apart and reassemble, the longer it will take to clean. Additionally, your machine will be “down” for longer. Keep in mind that more advanced models with new, complex technology require a learning curve, which means extra training for all employees who will use the fluid warmer.
How Easy Is It To Use?
Your fluid warmer should be easy to use for the same reasons it should be easy to clean and maintain. While you may be tempted to get a model with the finest technology, ease of use and efficiency should be your top priorities. User-friendly equipment just can’t be beaten, especially when you have to make quick decisions in a high-stress environment like an emergency room. The easier a machine or device is to use, the faster medical personnel can take life-saving action.
Read Reviews To Find the Best Model
If you’re still having trouble finding the right fluid warmer, don’t be afraid to look at online reviews or ask other facilities of similar practice what model they use. In truth, there’s no better way to get the most durable, reliable, and user-friendly fluid warmer than by looking at user reviews. Other people in your industry will be able to give you insight into the upsides and pitfalls of a particular model.
Now that you know how to choose the best fluid warmer for your facility, let us help you meet your perfect match. Future Health Concepts has a wide selection of high-quality fluid warmers to choose from. With a variety of sizes, temperature ranges, and storage options, you’re guaranteed to find a model that meets and surpasses your facility’s needs and expectations.