Some size distributions of particulate contamination found in commercially available intravenous fluids

Abstract

The size distributions of particulate contamination found in some commercially available normal saline solutions and dextrose solutions have been determined using the Coulter Counter. Many of these solutions contain considerable numbers of particles larger than the equivalent volume diameter of erythrocytes. Earlier observations that most of the particulate contamination emanates from the rubber closure were confirmed by repeated autoclaving of saline in a rubber-plugged glass container. It is possible to prepare solutions substantially free of particles larger than 5 μ, and commercial material of this quality is available. A tentative standard is proposed and discussed.