Microplastics have been found almost everywhere that scientists have looked for them. Now these bits of plastic — from 1 to 62 micrometers long — have been found in the filtered solutions used for medical intravenous (IV) infusions. The researchers estimate that thousands of plastic particles could be delivered directly to a person’s bloodstream from a single 250 ml bag of infusion fluid.

Now, according to research published in the ACS partner journal Environment & Health, these bits of plastic — from 1 to 62 micrometers long — are present in the filtered solutions used for medical intravenous (IV) infusions. The researchers estimate that thousands of plastic particles could be delivered directly to a person’s bloodstream from a single 250 ml bag of infusion fluid.

IV infusions are packaged in individual plastic pouches and deliver water, electrolytes, nutrients or medicine to patients.

Thinking of the vast diversity of plastics found in healthcare wastes – IV bags, infusion sets, catheter bags, plastic syringes, and so much more there is every reason to look further toward better plastics that do not shed microplastics.