An In-depth Guide to the Benefits of In-Line Intravenous Infusion Filters

Many researchers show that the administration of multiple drugs to neonates and children in hospitals often causes the formation of potentially harmful particles in the infusion lines. And, the result of such contamination can be deadly. 

While the impact of particle-contaminated infusions on critically ill adult patients is still not clear and researchers are continuously studying this area, many studies have demonstrated notable improvements in the condition of critically ill children and newborns with the use of in-line filters. In this blog, we are going to understand the vital reasons for using in-line intravenous infusion filters during Intravenous therapy. However, before we jump onto the main topic, let’s understand intravenous therapy and how intravenous infusion filters are associated with this process.

Intravenous (IV) therapy is widely used in neonatal and pediatric patients, frequently receiving multiple drugs simultaneously through a limited number of venous accesses. This process is important to alter fluid and electrolytes, give patients medications and replenish blood volume, however, it also plays a role in increasing the risk of drug-drug interactions and precipitate formation. Contamination of IV fluids with microorganisms, particles, or air bubbles can lead to critical conditions of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) as such patients can receive up to one million particles daily. 

Many researchers have highlighted the significance of in-line intravenous infusion filters for the removal of bacteria, endotoxins and particulates associated with intravenous therapy in adults to mitigate the overall particulate contamination exposure during multidrug IV therapy, especially in pediatric haematology wards.

Even though there are high particle exposure levels observed during hospitalisation, in-line filtration has been recognised as a promising solution. These filters are designed to prevent particulates, microorganisms and air from being infused and potentially minimise morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. While evidence for the use of in-line filters in neonates may be insufficient, several studies have shown their benefits for critically ill patients.

So, it is quite clear that in-line filters led to decreased complication rates, including systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), reduced duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalisation and different respiratory, renal and haematological complications. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety, efficacy and quality of intravenous therapy, making it an essential component of modern healthcare practice.

Particle Elimination

In-line filtration is an effective solution to remove particulate matter from infusion lines that prevent potentially harmful particles from entering the patient's bloodstream. With infusing filters, you can eliminate the risk of adverse reactions and complications associated with particle infusion.

Contamination Prevention

With in-line filters, it is possible to prevent microorganisms and air from being infused along with medications or fluids during intravenous therapy. This device helps to maintain the sterility of IV solutions and mitigate the risk of infection or sepsis in patients, especially those who are critically ill and can be infected easily.

Assurance of Patient Safety

While you can reduce the risk of contamination and adverse reactions, you can enhance the overall safety during intravenous therapy. So, infusing filters is widely used for vulnerable populations such as neonates, children and critically ill patients who are more susceptible to complications.

Reduction of Complications

It has been shown in many clinical studies that the use of in-line filters can minimise complications during intravenous therapy such as thrombi, sepsis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and other organ-specific issues. So, this device is highly effective for better patient outcomes and shorter hospital stays.

Better Medication Delivery

In-line filters play an important role in maintaining the effectiveness and purity of medications by eliminating all unwanted particles or contaminants. This makes sure that neonates, children and critically ill patients receive the appropriate dose of medication without the intervention of foreign substances.

A Trusted Wholesaler of Medical Supplies- Your Ultimate Destination to Buy In-Line Intravenous Infusion Filters

When it comes to buying medical supplies, it is always recommended to opt for a well-reputed medical wholesaler to be assured of the quality of products and the safety of patients. If you are looking for one, EconoMed is the name you can trust. Being a recognised medical wholesaler in the UK market, we pride ourselves on taking the step of becoming a global distributor with our extensive range of products- from  PPE and in-line filters to expensive surgical equipment.