The system was deemed the fastest to use, requiring the fewest steps according to independently published data. Â
Some of the unique design features include:Â Â
The EQUASHIELD® CSTD is substantiated to prevent microbial ingress in 10x accesses for up to seven days.Â
EQUASHIELD ® CSTD is clinically backed to prevent exposure from vapor escape, leakage, and drips. It is currently the only system featuring an encapsulated syringe barrel, with a closed internal pressure equalization mechanism in place. The outer is permanently welded to the syringe to ensure protection throughout the hazardous drug handling process. Additionally, the encapsulated plunger rod is non-detachable from the barrel, allowing for the safe utilization of the syringe’s full volume.Â
For product specifics, refer to the product page. Syringe Units | Vial Adaptors | Spike Adaptors |Â 180 Set | Accessories | Female Connectors |Â Luer Lock Adaptors | IV Tubing SetsÂ
The system is DEHP, latex, and BPA free, addressing common safety concerns associated with these materials. Additionally, it has been substantiated for effective use with specific chemotherapy agents such as Busulfan, Etoposide, Paclitaxel, and Treanda, which supports the system’s reliability in handling hazardous drugs while minimizing risk to both patients and healthcare professionals. No testing has been conducted on monoclonal antibody therapies (MAB’s) to test compatibility.Â
Closed System drug Transfer Device (CSTD) for preparation, reconstitution, compounding and administration of drugs, including antineoplastic and hazardous drugs. This closed system mechanically prohibits the transfer of environmental contaminants into the system and the escape of drug or vapor concentrations outside the system, thereby minimizing individual and environmental exposure to drug vapor, aerosols, and spills, and prevents microbial ingress for up to 7 days. The system’s closed Syringe Unit prevents intended and unintended syringe plunger detachment and can be used safely up to its maximal nominal volume with hazardous drugs.Â
EQUASHIELD ® products are not intended to exceed 10 membrane engagements. Multiple reconnections of components have been substantiated up to 10 times.Â
The locking mechanism holds the membrane-to-membrane connections tightly together to prevent leaks during manipulations. EQUASHIELD operates using a mechanical pull mechanism.
The outer diameter of the needle is 1.5 mm.Â
There are no known chemical incompatibilities with EQUASHIELD components. While there is no possibility to test every drug in the market, EQUASHIELD has conducted testing with known “aggressive” drugs, such as, busulfan, etoposide, paclitaxel, and bendamustine hydrochloride, with no adverse effects. That testing can be found here: Â
You can use the SA-EZ/W or the SA-EZ/D.
Consult the instructions for use
Once the vial adaptors are securely placed on the vial, they cannot be removed. The VA–20C/2 is designed to fully penetrate a thick, concave rubber stopper of a vial. If you placed a VA-20C/2 on a non-concave vial, you will still be able to withdraw drug, but you may not be able to get the full volume out of the vial. If you put a VA-20/2 on a concave vial, the spike in the vial adaptor may not penetrate all the way through the stopper.
There is no space in the LL-2 and FC-1 connections with an approximate priming volume of 0.17mL. If this triggers an air-in-line alarm on the infusion pump, other customers have had success backpriming the secondary line from the primary line until the air bubble has reached the drip chamber. This is ideally done before beginning the infusion. Â
If the infusion line for the subsequent dose is primed with diluent, the diluent will infuse through the LL-2 prior to the drug. The residual volume in the LL-2 is approximately 0.1 mL. In the case of a line primed with active drug, most customers will flush the LL-2 using one of the above-mentioned methods. In most instances, following the same process in place prior to using EQUASHIELD will apply here.Â
Some EQUASHIELD customers choose to use a CSTD at each access point and others at just the point of HD connection. The latest recommendations from ONS state, “With consistent use of CSTDs at all access points (e.g., bag spike adaptors, Luer lock IV site connectors, IV tubing sets) and appropriate PPE, priming with non-HD solution via backflow/back prime method can assist with maintaining a closed system to prevent exposure” (Olsen et al., 2023, pp. 349-350).
Reference:Â
Olsen, M., DNP, APRN-CNS, AOCNS, FAAN, LeFebvre, K. B., DNP, RN, NPD-BC, AOCN, Walker, S. L., PhD, CRNP, BC, AOCN, & Dunphy, E. P., DNP, CRNP, BC, AOCN (2023). Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy: Guidelines and Recommendations for Practice (2nd ed., pp. 349-350). Oncology Nursing Society.Â
EQUASHIELD ® CSTD products are tested for leak-free disconnections and airtight vapor containment. Explore clinical peer-reviewed and independent studies here.Â
US:Â
FDA 510(k) clearance: K221513Â
Product Code: ONBÂ
Classification Name: Closed Antineoplastic And Hazardous Drug Reconstitution And Transfer SystemÂ
EU:Â
CE mark under the Medical Device Regulation 2017/745Â
Device Name: EQUASHIELD Closed System Transfer DeviceÂ
EQUASHIELD is designed to prevent contamination of syringe plungers, which has repeatedly been identified as a significant route of exposure to hazardous drugs. Its closed pressure equalization feature effectively stops drug or vapor escape, while dry connectors remain free of drug residues upon disconnection. Cleared by the FDA under the ONB code, EQUASHIELD has been substantiated to prevent microbial ingress for ten accesses over a span of up to seven days. Clinically proven in peer-reviewed studies, it is recognized for its safety and efficacy.Â
Explore our full range of CSTD products here:Â Â Equashield wholesaler catalogue | Product referance guide
Direct orders are placed email communication with the local representative International | United States
American customers have the added convenience of placing orders online here | Ordering PortalÂ
The EQUASHIELD Clinical Team consists of certified pharmacy technicians and registered nurses, offering support throughout your EQUASHIELD journey – from decision-making and training to implementation and beyond. Learn more here.
We serve international customers, and shipping terms vary depending on your location. Please contact us to connect with your local distributor for more information International | United States
