Rapid infusion system

A rapid infusion system for delivery of an infusium to a patient comprising:

• a. a pump assembly;
• b. a fluid containment assembly comprising upstream conduit, downstream conduit and a self-leveling drip chamber therebetween that maintains an appropriate volume of infusium to avoid introduction of air in the downstream conduit, wherein the self-leveling drip chamber comprises:
• i. a fluid well having a top and bottom;
• ii. an inlet port in communication with the upstream conduit;
• and
• iii. an outlet port in communication with the downstream conduit;
• c. a vent cap in communication with the drip chamber;
• d. a means for exerting a negative pressure in the drip chamber through the vent cap;
• e. at least one fluid level sensor to detect fluid level in the fluid well;
• and
• f. an automated controller that receives electronic signals from the at least one fluid level sensor and sends an electronic signal to the means for exerting a negative pressure to remove air from the fluid well through the vent cap as necessary to maintain a selected fluid volume in the drip chamber.