What type of monitoring device is often used during IV therapy?

Infusion pumps are crucial devices used during IV therapy because they play a vital role in accurately delivering intravenous fluids and medications at precise rates. These pumps are designed to control the flow of fluids into a patient's bloodstream and ensure that dosages are administered safely and consistently.

By allowing healthcare providers to set specific infusion rates and volumes, infusion pumps minimize the risk of over-infusion or under-infusion of essential medications and fluids, which can lead to serious complications. They are especially valuable in settings where a controlled delivery is needed, including critical care and pharmacies where precise medication administration is key.

Other devices mentioned serve different purposes. For example, thermometers measure body temperature, which, while important in monitoring a patient’s overall health, does not directly relate to the administration of IV fluids. Brachytherapy machines are specialized equipment used for delivering localized radiation therapy and have no role in IV therapy. Oximeters, which measure blood oxygen levels, are important for patient monitoring but again do not influence the administration of intravenous fluids directly. Thus, infusion pumps are the primary monitoring device relevant in the context of IV therapy.