Patent ID: 8038657

Claim:
An intravenous delivery system having an integrated flow monitoring device, the device comprising: a coupling assembly having an input, an output, and a fluid channel, the input configured for coupling to a fluid reservoir to provide flow of a fluid from the fluid reservoir to the output via the fluid channel, wherein the flow of fluid exits the output as a fluid drop; an electrical circuit having an output, a power source, an electrical current sensor, a first lead, and a second lead, the power source interposedly connected between the first lead and the second lead, the electrical current sensor interposedly connected between the first lead and the power source, the first lead having a proximal end coupled to a first portion of the coupling assembly and a distal end extending therefrom, and the second lead having a proximal end coupled to a second portion of the coupling assembly and a distal end extending therefrom, wherein the distal ends of the first and second leads are positioned in the pathway of the fluid drop, and wherein simultaneous contact between the fluid drop and the distal ends of the first and second leads completes the electrical circuit; and a signaling device coupled to the output of the electrical circuit to provide a signal upon completion of the electrical circuit.