B. Braun Medical Inc. (B. Braun), announced the launch of its new CARESAFE IV Administration Sets with Optional AirStop component. CARESAFE IV Sets are the part of the portfolio of IV administration sets in the US market that are not made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP).
They provide an added level of protection for the environment and, most importantly, to patients from the potential health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals.
Dioxin, a known human carcinogen, can be formed during the manufacture of PVC, and during the incineration or burning of PVC products. DEHP, a phthalate used to soften PVC, is an endocrine disrupting compound (EDC) that has been shown to be harmful to certain patient populations including pregnant women, male neonates, and young children.
The American Medical Association, among other healthcare and professional organizations, encourages hospitals and physicians to reduce and phase out the use of PVC medical device products, especially those containing DEHP, and urges the adoption of safe, cost-effective, alternative products where available.
In addition to reducing patient exposure to toxic substances, CARESAFE IV Sets with Optional AirStop component also help to protect patients from the risks associated with air infusion and helps prevent the line from running dry. This is critical in IV therapy because any entry of air into the vascular system causes a risk for air embolism. Air embolism is on the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) list of Serious Reportable Events known as “never events.” While the frequency of air embolisms is low, the mortality rate is high (21%).
The AirStop filter is designed to only allow fluid to pass through and thereby helps to prevent the line from running dry, providing peace of mind for the clinician and increasing safety for the patient.
