Inspecting the quality of IV sets based on physical properties can help ensure that they are safe and effective for use in medical treatment. Here are some aspects of inspecting IV set quality based on physical properties.
By observing
Packing
Firstly, check for packaging integrity: start by checking the packaging of the IV set. Ensure that it is properly sealed, labeled, and in good condition. Any damage or tampering may be a sign of potential contamination. Our usual packings are small PE bags or paper pouches, big PE bags or normal boxes and outer cartons.
Black spots, stains, or hair
The presence of black spots, stains, or hair on the IV set poses a question about the sanitary condition of the device. For example, if excess silicone oil is present on the needle, it can cause adverse reactions in some patients, such as inflammation or allergic reactions. Finding hair inside an IV set packing raises concerns about the sterility and cleanliness of the IV set, which can compromise patient safety.
Completion of parts
It is important for hospital staff to check the IV sets before use to ensure that all parts are present and in proper working order. This includes checking for missing components such as needles, caps, or other parts.
Any missing components should be reported immediately. Using an incomplete or improperly assembled IV set can result in leakage, air bubbles, or other issues that can compromise patient safety.
The tubing quality
Inspect tubing: Check the tubing for any visible signs of cracks, holes, discoloration, or kinks. The tubing should also be flexible enough to allow for easy handling and attachment to other components.
- Cracks and holes: Check the tubing carefully for any visible signs of cracks, holes, or other damage. These can compromise the integrity of the tubing and cause leaks or other issues during administration.
- Discoloration: Look for any discoloration in the tubing, which can be a sign of aging or damage. Discolored tubing may also indicate that it has been exposed to light or other environmental factors that could affect its performance.
- Kinks: Check the tubing for any kinks or bends, particularly near connections or joints. These can restrict flow and lead to underdosing or overdosing on medications or fluids.
- Flexibility: The tubing should be flexible enough to allow for easy handling and attachment to other components while still maintaining sufficient rigidity to prevent folding or collapse during use.
By checking the tubing for these issues, healthcare professionals can help ensure that the IV set is safe and effective for use in medical treatment. If any problems are identified, the IV set should be replaced immediately to avoid potential harm to the patient.
The Needle quality
Needle: The needle should be straight, sharp, and free of any visible defects. It should not have any burrs, nicks, or irregularities that could cause discomfort or injury to the patient.
By tests
Protective cap
The protective cap on an IV set is an important component that helps maintain its sterility and prevent contamination. The protective cap needs to be solid and easy to remove. The breakability rate is high when the lid is not solid. In addition, medical workers can easily remove the cap from the needle. Cap that is hard to remove may damage other parts of the IV set, such as the connector or the needle itself. Worse and more serious, as the medical staff struggles to remove the cap, he could injure himself with the needle. The lid must not be too hard to remove or loose to prevent accidental falls from the cannula.
Spike
The end of the spike needs to be sharp to pierce the stopper of the fluid container or bag easily. A blunt or dull spike end on an IV set can produce unnecessary and potentially harmful cuttings that can compromise patient safety.
- Increased risk of injury: A blunt or dull spike end requires greater force to penetrate the stopper of a fluid container or bag, increasing the risk of injury to both the healthcare professional and the patient. This can result in accidental cuts or punctures that may require medical attention.
- Increased risk of contamination: The use of excessive force to penetrate the stopper can also increase the risk of contamination. If the stopper is damaged or disrupted in the process, it may allow bacteria or other contaminants to enter the fluid container or bag, compromising its sterility.
- Inefficient administration: A blunt or dull spike end may also result in inefficient administration of medications or fluids. If the spike is unable to penetrate the stopper fully, it may result in slow or inconsistent flow rates, which can impact the effectiveness of treatments.
Roller clamps
The roller clamps on an IV set are critical for controlling the flow rate of fluids or medications being administered to a patient. Here’s some more detail on what to look for in quality roller clamps:
- Efficient control: The roller clamp should be able to efficiently control the flow rate of fluids or medications by adjusting the pressure on the tubing. The movement of the roller should be smooth and easy to adjust.
- Compatibility with tubing: The roller clamp should be compatible with the tubing being used and should not damage or compress the tubing during use. This can help ensure that the tubing remains intact and free from leaks or other issues that can compromise patient safety.
- Accurate flow rate: The roller clamp should be able to accurately control the flow rate of fluids or medications being administered. If the flow rate cannot be effectively controlled or if the liquid continues to flow after the clamp is closed, this may indicate a problem with the clamp or the tubing.
- Durability: The roller clamp should be made from a durable material that can withstand repeated use without breaking down or losing its efficacy. It should also be easy to clean and sterilize to minimize the risk of contamination.
Tube length and diameter
Measure the length and diameter of the tubing to ensure that they meet the specified dimensions for the infusion set.
Length: The length of the tubing is an important specification to ensure that the IV set can reach its intended location within the patient’s body. If the tubing is too short, it may not be able to reach the desired location, which can result in ineffective treatment or complications. Conversely, if the tubing is too long, it can increase the risk of entanglement or damage to the IV set. The normal length is 150cm. Check our IV sets
Diameter: The diameter of the tubing plays a critical role in determining the flow rate of fluids or medications being administered through the IV set. If the diameter is too narrow, it can restrict the flow rate and lead to delays in treatment. On the other hand, if the diameter is too wide, it can result in excessive flow rates that may be harmful to the patient.
Tensile strength
The connection between two parts of an IV set must be able to withstand a static pulling force of not less than 15N for 15 seconds. This is an important safety standard that helps ensure that the IV set remains securely connected during use and prevents accidental separation or disconnection.
The pulling force test may be conducted by applying a force of at least 15N for a duration of 15 seconds to the connection between two parts of the IV set, such as the tubing and the needle. If the connection remains intact and does not separate or show signs of damage, it passes the test. Otherwise, it can result in leakage, air bubbles, or other issues that can compromise patient safety or the effectiveness of medical treatment.
Filtration of latex particles
The filtration rate of latex particles with a size of 15 microns +/- 1 micron must be greater than or equal to 90%. By following the rule, healthcare professionals can help minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the safe and effective administration of medications or fluids to patients.
Pollution index
The sanitary condition of the IV sets could be affected by the pollution in the environment where employees keep them. Thus, distributors and end users must know the degree of particle pollution by doing laboratory tests. In some instances, the degree of particle pollution can be checked and evaluated from the manufacturer’s test report. Manufacturers must submit this report to the distributors of the IV sets.
Leakage in the assembly parts
Checking for leaks is an essential part of ensuring the quality and safety of an IV set. This is particularly important at the points where components and tubes are assembled.
Blockages
Checking for blockages in an IV set is an essential part of ensuring its quality and safety. Blockages can prevent the proper flow of medications or fluids, which can compromise patient safety and the effectiveness of treatment.
