May 7, 2025- The Nursing Beat, in partnership with B. Braun Medical Inc., announced the results of a survey of over 500 nurses in the United States indicating a concerning knowledge gap about the potential harmful effects of Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP), the most commonly used phthalate in medical devices, and its presence in IV bags and tubing.
Nearly 75% of nurses polled were unaware that the majority of IV bags used in the U.S. contain DEHP, and more than 50% were unaware that the state of California has determined DEHP to be a reproductive and developmental toxicant and carcinogen. With 70% of nurses unaware that DEHP can leach out of IV bags into the solution contained in the bag and be infused into a patient’s body, the need to raise awareness that safe alternatives exist has never been more important.