Abstract: An intravenous system for monitoring the flow of IV fluids to a patient is embodied in a wristwatch sized case for placement on the patient. The device includes a switch uses capable of detecting when flow starts or stops. In one embodiment, the range of flow rates which may trigger a signal is increased using a plurality of sensor elements. The flow indicator switch uses a conical fluid conducting means with a movable stem body which reacts to the motion of the IV fluid. A signal-emitter-sensor arrangement provides a means for converting physical displacement into an electrical signal indicating displacement of the movable member thus detecting when flow starts and stops, as well as the rate of flow. Collected information is stored in a data storage means and may be either displayed on a display means housed within the case, or alternately, the collected data may be uploaded to a computer.