The operation and technologies of both IC and SC types of compression are similar; therefore the recommendations apply to both.
Clinicians disagree about the comparative effectiveness of both IC and SC therapy. They also do not agree on the effectiveness of treating only the calf versus treating both the calf and thigh or the foot only, with a DVT prevention device.
Facilities should consider the following before making an intermittent compression unit purchase: cost-effectiveness, ease-of-use, reliability, service support, and pump operation noise levels.
The intermittent pneumatic compression system devices should assist in the circulation of blood by pumping the venous system. Pressures that stop arterial blood flow are counterproductive to optimal refilling of the veins, and so a high pressure of 100 mm Hg that is greater than systolic blood pressure, acts as a tourniquet and stops arterial blood flow.
The applied pressures should be as low as possible between 30 and 60 mm Hg for the calf, and not over 220 mm Hg as a rule.
To allow for venous refilling, 45 seconds of deflation is optimal. To measure and communicate pressure and duration, some type of display is needed on the intermittent compression unit.
DVT prevention device audible and visual overpressure alarms should alert the user if cuffs are inflated to a pressure that is 10% greater than the specified setting. Audible and visual duration alarms on all intermittent compression units should alert if cuffs have been inflated longer than intended.
Intermittent compression unit users should manually check proper connection and alignment of pressure tubes. To provide an easy method of stopping operation in an emergency, a power switch is recommended.

Read more valuable tips on the Medical Equipment Buying Guide by MedWOW >>