Introduction
CSTD Spike Adaptors

Introduction to CSTD Spike Adaptors

Table of Contents

Introduction

Spike Adaptors play a vital role in the compounding and administration process, offering a secure and user-friendly method for transferring medication. They are crucial for reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the safety of both healthcare staff and patients.

The purpose of this article is to thoroughly assess and compare various spike adaptors available on the market, so you can choose a suitable design for your requirements. By conducting a comprehensive analysis based on factors such as integrity, ease of use, compatibility with different containers, and cost-effectiveness, this page offers valuable insights to pharmacists, nurses, and healthcare professionals.

Understanding Spike Adaptors

Spike Adaptors are typically used when handling hazardous medications as a tool to minimize the risk of exposure. They are instrumental for the safe and seamless transfer of hazardous medications between the syringe, IV bags, and tubing set. Adaptors offer a secure connection point, thereby preventing vapor escape, spills, and leakage.

The design of Spike Adaptors influences their efficiency and safety. Various models come equipped with different features such as enhanced ease of use or preventing disconnections. Choosing the appropriate Spike Adaptor can significantly impact the efficiency of the compounding and administration process.

EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor videos

Back Priming using EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor
#CSTD Administration
#female connector
#luer lock adaptor
#spike adaptor

Back Priming using EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor

Administering a Dose using the EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor and Female Luer Lock Connector
#CSTD Administration
#female connector
#spike adaptor

Administering a Dose Using the EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor (SA-180) and Female Luer Lock Connector (FC-180)

Preparing an IV Bag Using an EQUASHIELD Secondary Set
#CSTD Preparation
#luer lock adaptor
#spike adaptor

Preparing an IV Bag Using an EQUASHIELD Secondary Set

Factors for Evaluation

spike in action CSTD
spike in action CSTD

Compatibility with IV Bags and Syringe Units

Compatibility with various IV bags, tubing sets, and syringes is a paramount consideration in the selection of spike adaptors. The ability of an adaptor to accommodate a broad assortment of IV bags and tubing sets offers healthcare providers flexibility.

Different materials can influence the choice of Spike Adaptor. The chemical composition of the medication may interact with certain adaptor materials , affecting its safety and efficacy. Understanding the compatibility between Spike Adaptor materials and the medication used is crucial to patient safety.

EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptors comply with ISO 10993-1:2018 biological evaluation of medical devices standards, making them an ideal choice for chemotherapy compounding and administration. They are DEHP, Latex, and BPA-free, ensuring enhanced safety and reduced risk of contamination. These medications have been substantiated for universal use in chemotherapy treatments, including Busulfan, Etoposide, Paclitaxel, and Treanda.

Leakage prevention

Spike Adaptors play a critical role in preventing leaks during the transfer of liquids, which is paramount to maintaining the sterility and integrity of medications. These devices are designed with precision-engineered mechanisms that ensure a tight and secure connection between the IV bag and the administration set or syringe. By creating an airtight seal, Spike Adaptors obstruct the pathways through which contaminants might enter or liquid might escape, preventing the risk of leaks, spills, and vapor release.

EQUASHIELD Spike Adaptor Benefits

Exposure prevention is arguably the most critical aspect of a Spike Adaptor. Closed system spike adapters provide superior protection against vapor emissions, leaks, and spills. Features such as internal locking mechanisms further enhance safety by preventing accidental disconnection of IV tubing to Spike Adaptor.

Ease of use is of the utmost importance when considering healthcare providers who may be compounding hundreds of medications a day. Most Spike Adaptors are designed with ergonomics in mind, however some brands may have slight advantages over others. Equashield Spike Adaptors require minimal force for IV tube insertion. Designed to seamlessly work with all IV bags and tubing sets, our top-tier plastics ensure compatibility with all hazardous drugs.

EQUASHIELD benefits

Exposure prevention is arguably the most critical aspect of a spike adaptor. Closed system spike adapters provide superior protection against vapor emissions, leaks, and spills. Features such as internal locking mechanisms further enhance safety by preventing accidental disconnection of IV tubing to spike adaptor.

Ease of use is of the utmost importance when considering healthcare providers who may be compounding hundreds of medications a day. Most spike adaptors are designed with ergonomics in mind, however some brands may have slight advantages over others. Equashield spike adaptors require minimal force for IV tube insertion. Designed to seamlessly work with all IV bags and tubing sets, our top-tier plastics ensure compatibility with all HD equipment.

Assessment of Top Spike Adaptors

/ Membrane Spike Adaptors

Membrane-based spike adaptors tend to outperform other kinds of spike adaptors in preventing leakage and drips. They are designed to provide added protection against microbial contamination.

/ Luer or Valve Spike Adaptors

These adaptors feature a twist-on mechanism. Their familiarity offers a significant advantage, making it easy for healthcare providers to adopt.  

/ Equashield Spike Adaptors

Membrane-based Spike Adaptors, equipped with a septum push-on mechanism, enhance safety by averting leaks and minimizing drips. They provide superior defense against microbial contamination and include an internal locking feature to prevent unintended disconnections. They are designed to be ergonomic and require minimal force for IV tubing insertion.  

A Guide to Selecting the Right Spike Adaptor

Tips and considerations for Pharmacists

/ Evaluating Compatibility and Application

When selecting a Spike Adaptor, first consider the types of medications, containers, and IV tubing sets you frequently work with. Ensure the adaptor is compatible with various sizes and materials, especially if your pharmacy handles a broad range . Compatibility extends to both the physical fit and the chemical composition to avoid adverse reactions when in contact with different medications.

/ Assessing the Adaptability to Workflow

Choose Spike Adaptors that integrate seamlessly into your current workflow. Adaptors that are easy to utilize, and those requiring minimal changeover time and force between uses, can significantly enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, consider adaptors that support a range of activities, from compounding to administering, to streamline procedures and reduce the need for multiple products.

/ Prioritizing Safety and Asepsis

In environments where safety is paramount, prioritize Spike Adaptors with features that enhance aseptic transfer, such as mechanically closed systems. Adaptors that emphasize and prevent leakage should be prioritized especially when handling hazardous drugs.

/ Balancing Cost with Quality and Performance

While budget constraints are a reality, invest in high-quality spike adaptors that deliver reliable performance over time. Higher upfront costs for advanced features like mechanical barriers and internal locking mechanisms to the IV tubing can result in savings by avoiding exposure for staff.

The EQUASHIELD EZ Spike Adaptor provides superior ease of use, requiring minimal effort for IV tube insertion. Its internal locking mechanism is designed to ensure a secure connection and prevent accidental disconnections from IV tubing.

How to chose the right CSTD - closed system transfer device
attaching a spike adaptor

Advantages of Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs)

Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs) offer a revolutionary approach to the safe compounding and administration of hazardous drugs. These systems are designed to prevent the escape of hazardous drug or vapor concentrations into the environment, thereby protecting healthcare workers, patients, and anyone else who might be exposed to these toxic substances. CSTDs achieve this by prohibiting the transfer of environmental contaminants into the system and the escape of hazardous drug or vapor outside the system. Their use is especially critical in oncology settings, where handling cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs poses significant exposure risks. By ensuring airtight connections and transfers, CSTDs significantly reduce the risk of drug exposure, minimizing the potential for occupational-related health issues and enhancing overall safety in drug compounding procedures. CSTDs utilizing a mechanical barrier eliminate risk of exposure by maintaining a completely closed system from preparation through administration.

Preventing exposure and contamination

Maintaining a closed system during the transfer and compounding of medications presents numerous advantages, pivotal for ensuring the health and safety of both healthcare workers and patients. By employing closed systems, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the risk of environmental contamination and exposure to hazardous drugs. This is particularly vital in settings where staff handle cytotoxic and other high-risk medications regularly. Closed systems also enhance patient safety by minimizing the risk of medication contamination, thus preserving the integrity and efficacy of the drugs administered. Additionally, these systems support compliance with regulatory standards aimed at improving workplace safety in healthcare settings. Implementing closed system transfer devices (CSTDs) as a standard practice not only underscores a commitment to safety but also contributes to a safer, more efficient workflow, minimizing the potential for errors and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality care.

Case study

Eliminating surface contamination

Studies have shown that using insufficient measures to prevent contamination leads to contamination throughout the hospital. A peer-reviewed clinical study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the EQUASHIELD CSTD (closed system transfer device) at reducing surface contamination with antineoplastic agents throughout an ambulatory cancer chemotherapy infusion center. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the EQUASHIELD CSTD in reducing surface contamination with antineoplastic agents at an ambulatory cancer chemotherapy infusion center. Samples were taken at three different times: before and after implementation of the device, and one year later. Initial results showed low levels of contamination with cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil.

The study found that the contamination of surfaces with cytotoxic agents at the center was successfully eliminated after a year. Implementation of the EQUASHIELD CSTD completely eliminated surface contamination of cytotoxic agents. 

Conclusion

Summarizing the critical role of Spike Adaptors

This article assesses spike adaptors, highlighting safety, sterility, durability, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with medications. It emphasizes the benefits of Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs) and guides healthcare facilities in choosing top-performing spike adaptors for optimal medication preparation and patient safety.

It highlights key factors and specific compounding needs for informed decisions that enhance care quality and safeguard healthcare workers and patients. Investing in quality adaptors ensures a streamlined medication preparation process. Key strategies include using advanced technologies, strict aseptic techniques, ongoing staff training, high-quality ingredients, and continuous improvement through regular audits. These measures can enhance healthcare facilities’ operations, leading to safer and more effective patient care.

Their contribution to patient and healthcare worker well-being

The adoption of high-quality spike adaptors and Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs) significantly contributes to the well-being of both patients and healthcare workers. For patients, these advanced devices ensure the integrity and sterility of medications, which in turn, maximizes therapeutic efficacy and minimizes potential contamination risks. This safeguarding of medication quality is essential in the treatment process, particularly for individuals receiving chemotherapy or other high-risk drugs, as it supports better clinical outcomes and reduces the likelihood of adverse reactions.

For healthcare workers, employing CSTDs and robust spike adaptors translates to a safer working environment by effectively limiting exposure to hazardous drugs. Given that these professionals are on the frontline, consistently handling cytotoxic and other potent medications, the utilization of such protective measures minimizes occupational health risks. This is crucial in preventing long-term health complications associated with repeated drug exposure. Additionally, these systems contribute to operational efficiency by  streamlining the preparation process. In essence, the adoption of these technologies fosters an environment where both patients and healthcare staff can experience enhanced safety, efficacy, and overall well-being.