The Science Behind Types Of Giving Sets: Properties, Production, and Applications

Materials Used in IV Giving Sets: Properties, Benefits, and Applications

The materials used in the construction of IV giving sets (also known as infusion sets) are critical to ensuring patient safety, treatment efficacy, and overall performance. These materials must meet stringent medical standards, particularly in terms of biocompatibility—the ability to interact with biological systems without causing adverse reactions. Additionally, the choice of material affects flexibility, durability, chemical resistance, and ease of use. Below is a detailed overview of the most commonly used materials in modern IV therapy systems.

Medical-Grade PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most widely used materials in IV giving sets due to its excellent balance of physical and chemical properties.

Advantages

• High elasticity and flexibility for smooth fluid delivery
• Excellent transparency for easy monitoring of fluid flow
• Resistant to a broad range of medications and solutions
• Easily molded into complex shapes (tubing, drip chambers, connectors)
• Cost-effective for large-scale medical production

Limitations

• May require plasticizers, which can leach into fluids over time
• Less environmentally friendly (non-biodegradable)
• Not suitable for all drug types (e.g., some lipophilic medications)

Best for: Standard IV infusions, short-term therapies, general hospital use

Polyurethane (PU)

Polyurethane is increasingly favored in advanced IV systems for its superior mechanical properties and compatibility with sensitive treatments.

Advantages

• Exceptional durability and abrasion resistance
• High flexibility with low kink risk
• Excellent resistance to drug-induced degradation
• Thinner walls allow for smaller catheters and improved patient comfort
• Retains performance across a wide temperature range

Limitations

• Higher manufacturing cost compared to PVC
• More complex processing requirements
• Less common in basic disposable sets

Best for: Long-term infusions, oncology, ICU settings, and specialized drug delivery

Silicone

Silicone is a premium material used in high-sensitivity applications due to its outstanding biocompatibility and stability.

Advantages

• Extremely biocompatible and hypoallergenic
• Resistant to extreme temperatures (autoclavable)
• Highly flexible and soft, minimizing tissue irritation
• Chemically inert—does not react with most drugs or bodily fluids
• Long-term stability in the body

Limitations

• Lower tensile strength compared to PU or PVC
• More prone to tearing under mechanical stress
• Premium pricing limits widespread use

Best for: Pediatric care, chronic therapies, sensitive patients, and implantable or indwelling lines

Latex

Once a common material in medical tubing, latex has seen a significant decline due to safety concerns.

Advantages

• Natural elasticity and high tensile strength
• Excellent sealing and kink resistance
• Low cost and easy to manufacture

Limitations

• High allergenic potential—can cause severe reactions
• Phasing out in most medical environments
• Not suitable for patients with latex sensitivity (affecting ~1-6% of population)

Best for: Limited use in non-patient-contact components; largely replaced by synthetic alternatives

Material	Biocompatibility	Flexibility	Durability	Common Applications
Medical-Grade PVC	High	Excellent	Good	General IV therapy, hospitals, emergency care
Polyurethane (PU)	Very High	Excellent	Excellent	Oncology, ICU, long-term infusions
Silicone	Exceptional	Excellent	Good	Pediatrics, chronic care, sensitive patients
Latex	Low (Allergenic)	Very Good	Good	Legacy systems, non-critical components

Expert Tip: Always verify material compatibility with the specific medication being administered. For example, certain plasticizers in PVC may interact with lipid-based drugs, while silicone is preferred for hormone therapies due to its inert nature.

Commercial Value of IV Giving Sets

IV giving sets—also known as intravenous administration sets—are essential medical devices used across a wide range of healthcare environments to deliver fluids, medications, and nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream. Their critical role in treatment protocols has made them a high-demand commodity in the medical supply chain. From large hospitals to home-based care services, various commercial entities rely on IV giving sets to maintain operational efficiency, ensure patient safety, and support clinical outcomes. Understanding the commercial value of these devices requires an analysis of the diverse sectors that use them, their procurement strategies, and the factors influencing purchasing decisions.

Key Commercial Sectors Utilizing IV Giving Sets

Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals represent the largest consumer segment for IV giving sets due to the scale and complexity of their operations. These institutions require massive volumes of giving sets for emergency rooms, surgical procedures, intensive care units (ICUs), and general wards. The continuous need for intravenous therapy in critical care settings drives consistent and high-volume procurement.

When sourcing giving sets, hospitals prioritize product quality, sterility, compatibility with existing infusion systems, and regulatory compliance (e.g., FDA, CE marking). Many large hospitals operate under group purchasing organizations (GPOs) to leverage bulk-buying power and secure favorable pricing without compromising on safety standards. Reliability and traceability of supply are also key considerations, especially during public health emergencies or pandemics.

Outpatient Clinics and Ambulatory Care Centers

These facilities administer IV therapies such as antibiotics, hydration treatments, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy on a non-residential basis. While their volume requirements are lower than hospitals, outpatient centers still purchase giving sets in significant quantities to support daily patient flow.

Cost-efficiency is a major driver in procurement decisions for this sector. Clinics often balance affordability with performance, opting for certified, cost-effective products that meet clinical standards. Many ambulatory centers also value ease of integration with electronic health records (EHR) and smart infusion pumps, which enhances workflow efficiency and reduces human error.

Long-term Care Facilities

Nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living facilities frequently manage patients requiring prolonged IV therapy for conditions such as chronic infections, nutritional deficiencies, or post-surgical recovery. These institutions depend on a steady and reliable supply of IV giving sets to maintain continuity of care.

For long-term care providers, product usability, safety features (e.g., anti-drip valves, air-in-line protection), and staff training requirements are crucial factors. Establishing long-term relationships with trusted suppliers ensures consistent availability and minimizes disruptions in patient care. Some facilities also prefer pre-sterilized, single-use sets to reduce infection risks and simplify inventory management.

Pharmaceutical Companies

Pharmaceutical manufacturers utilize IV giving sets in clinical trials, drug development, and specialized delivery systems. In many cases, they require customized giving sets designed to work seamlessly with proprietary medications—especially biologics, oncology drugs, and precision therapies.

These companies often collaborate directly with medical device suppliers to co-develop administration kits that ensure accurate dosing, stability, and compatibility. The commercial value here extends beyond the physical product to include regulatory documentation, batch traceability, and technical support. For pharma firms, the giving set is not just a delivery tool but an integral component of the drug’s overall efficacy and safety profile.

Home Healthcare Providers

With the growing trend toward patient-centered care and reduced hospital stays, home healthcare services are expanding rapidly. Providers in this sector use IV giving sets for home infusions, including antibiotics, parenteral nutrition, pain management, and chronic disease treatment.

Products used in home settings must be user-friendly, portable, and safe for use by non-specialist caregivers or patients themselves. Features such as drip chambers with clear graduations, easy-to-use clamps, and kink-resistant tubing enhance usability. Providers also emphasize training, product reliability, and 24/7 technical support when selecting suppliers. The commercial opportunity in this market is growing, driven by aging populations and advances in telehealth and remote monitoring.

Sector	Procurement Volume	Key Selection Criteria	Supply Chain Preference
Hospitals & Medical Centers	Very High	Quality, sterility, regulatory compliance, bulk availability	GPO contracts, direct manufacturer agreements
Outpatient Clinics	Moderate to High	Cost-effectiveness, ease of use, integration with equipment	Distributors, regional suppliers
Long-term Care Facilities	Moderate	Reliability, safety features, supplier consistency	Trusted vendors, long-term contracts
Pharmaceutical Companies	Specialized / Custom	Compatibility, customization, technical support	Direct OEM partnerships
Home Healthcare Providers	Low to Moderate	User-friendliness, safety, training support	Specialty distributors, integrated care suppliers

Factors Influencing Commercial Demand

Regulatory Standards: Compliance with ISO 1135, FDA 21 CFR, and other international standards is mandatory for market access and influences supplier selection.

Technological Integration: Smart giving sets with flow sensors and digital interfaces are gaining traction, especially in automated and connected care environments.

Global Supply Chain Dynamics: Events like the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in supply chains, prompting institutions to diversify suppliers and maintain safety stock.

Sustainability Trends: Increasing pressure to reduce medical waste is driving innovation in recyclable materials and reusable components, though single-use sets remain dominant for sterility reasons.

Emerging Markets: Rapid healthcare expansion in Asia, Africa, and Latin America presents significant growth opportunities for manufacturers and distributors of IV giving sets.

Important: The commercial value of IV giving sets extends far beyond the unit price. Factors such as patient safety, clinical outcomes, regulatory compliance, and supply chain resilience play a critical role in purchasing decisions. Organizations should conduct thorough vendor assessments and consider total cost of ownership—not just upfront costs—when procuring these vital medical devices.

Different Variations of IV Giving Sets

IV giving sets—commonly referred to as drip sets or infusion sets—are essential components in intravenous therapy, engineered to deliver fluids, medications, and blood products safely and effectively. Modern medical practice utilizes a range of specialized IV giving sets, each tailored to specific clinical applications, patient conditions, and treatment goals. Understanding the differences between these types ensures accurate selection, optimal therapy delivery, and improved patient outcomes.

Primary IV Giving Sets

Primary IV sets are the most commonly used infusion systems in hospitals and clinics, designed for continuous fluid administration such as saline, dextrose, or electrolyte solutions. These sets are typically connected directly to an IV bag or bottle and run into the patient’s venous access line.

• Equipped with a drip chamber for visual monitoring of infusion rate
• Feature roller clamps to manually adjust flow rate
• Use standard Luer-lock or slip fittings for compatibility with most IV catheters and access ports
• Available in various drop factors (e.g., 10, 15, 20 drops/mL) to match fluid viscosity and delivery needs

Key use case: Routine hydration, post-operative recovery, and long-term fluid maintenance

Secondary IV Giving Sets (Piggyback Sets)

Also known as piggyback sets, secondary IV giving sets are used to administer intermittent medications—such as antibiotics or analgesics—through an existing primary IV line without disrupting the continuous fluid flow.

• Designed with a higher spike to connect above the primary set’s drip chamber, allowing gravity-driven infusion
• Include a backcheck valve to prevent backflow into the primary line
• Feature their own drip chamber and flow regulator for precise medication delivery
• Enable seamless switching between primary and secondary infusions

Clinical advantage: Reduces the need for multiple IV access points and streamlines medication administration

Blood Transfusion Sets

Specially engineered for the safe delivery of blood and blood components (e.g., packed red cells, plasma, platelets), these sets include critical safety features to protect blood integrity and patient safety.

• Integrated 170–200 micron filters to trap clots, microaggregates, and debris
• Large-bore tubing (typically 3–4 mm internal diameter) to minimize hemolysis during transfusion
• Compatibility with blood warming devices in cases of rapid or large-volume transfusions
• Often include a built-in Y-site for adding anticoagulant solutions if needed

Important note: Never reuse or substitute standard IV sets for blood transfusions due to risk of clotting and cell damage

Volumetric IV Giving Sets

Used in conjunction with electronic infusion pumps, volumetric sets provide highly accurate fluid delivery by measuring the volume of fluid dispensed over time. These are essential in critical care environments where precision is paramount.

• Feature a calibrated drip chamber that interfaces with the pump’s sensor system
• Enable programmable flow rates (mL/hour) with high accuracy (±5%)
• Support alarms for occlusion, air-in-line, and empty bag detection
• Ideal for delivering potent medications like insulin, vasopressors, or chemotherapy agents

Best practice: Regular calibration and use with compatible pump models ensure reliability

Low-Pressure IV Giving Sets

Designed for patients with delicate vascular systems, low-pressure sets minimize shear stress and turbulence in the fluid path, reducing the risk of cell damage and vein irritation.

• Commonly used in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and for geriatric patients
• Feature soft, flexible tubing and reduced-flow drip chambers
• Often paired with syringe pumps or low-pressure infusion devices
• Help prevent phlebitis and infiltration in fragile veins

Critical application: Pediatric care, post-surgical recovery, and patients with compromised venous access

Specialized IV Giving Sets

As medical treatments become more advanced, manufacturers have developed specialized IV sets to meet unique clinical demands beyond standard infusion therapy.

• Enteral feeding sets – Designed for delivering liquid nutrition via feeding tubes, with anti-reflux valves and compatibility with feeding pumps
• Viscous medication sets – Include wider tubing and high-flow connectors for thick solutions like lipids or certain antibiotics
• IVR (intraosseous) sets – Adapted for bone marrow delivery in emergency settings when IV access is not possible
• Multi-channel sets – Allow simultaneous delivery of multiple drugs through a single line with integrated Y- or multi-ports

Innovation spotlight: Antimicrobial-coated sets are emerging to reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs)

Clinical Recommendation: Always match the IV giving set to the specific therapy, patient condition, and equipment in use. When in doubt, consult hospital protocols or clinical guidelines. For example, blood products should only be administered with blood-specific sets, and high-risk infusions (e.g., inotropes) require volumetric pump-compatible sets for safety and accuracy.

IV Giving Set Type	Primary Use	Key Features	Typical Patient Setting
Primary IV Set	Continuous fluid therapy	Drip chamber, roller clamp, standard Luer fittings	General wards, post-op, dehydration management
Secondary (Piggyback) Set	Intermittent medication delivery	Backcheck valve, elevated spike, independent flow control	Hospitalized patients on antibiotics or pain meds
Blood Transfusion Set	Blood and component delivery	170–200µ filter, large-bore tubing, Y-site option	OR, ICU, trauma centers
Volumetric Set	Precise fluid/medication dosing	Pump-compatible, calibrated chamber, alarm integration	ICU, NICU, oncology units
Low-Pressure Set	Gentle fluid delivery	Soft tubing, reduced flow dynamics	NICU, geriatrics, fragile veins
Specialized Sets	Enteral, viscous, or emergency use	Custom connectors, antimicrobial coatings, multi-channel	Specialty units, emergency departments

Additional Considerations for IV Set Selection

• Sterility and Single-Use Design: All IV giving sets are sterile, single-use devices to prevent infection and cross-contamination
• Material Safety: Made from medical-grade PVC or non-DEHP alternatives to reduce chemical leaching risks
• Drop Factor Accuracy: Critical for manual rate calculations—always verify drop factor (gtt/mL) before use
• Latex-Free Options: Essential for patients with latex allergies; clearly labeled on packaging
• Environmental Controls: Proper disposal as medical waste; some components may be recyclable under hospital protocols

How to Choose the Right IV Giving Set: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting the appropriate IV giving set is a critical decision in healthcare delivery that directly impacts patient safety, treatment efficacy, and operational efficiency. The right IV tubing ensures accurate fluid administration, reduces complications, and supports seamless integration with medical equipment. With various types, materials, and safety features available, making an informed choice is essential for clinicians, hospital procurement teams, and caregivers. This guide outlines the key factors to consider when selecting an IV giving set to optimize clinical outcomes and maintain high standards of care.

Safety Note: Always verify compatibility between IV giving sets and infusion devices. Mismatched components can lead to under- or over-infusion, air embolism, or equipment malfunction—potentially endangering patient lives.

Key Factors in Selecting an IV Giving Set

• Compatibility with Infusion Equipment

  Ensure the IV giving set is fully compatible with your facility’s infusion pumps, volumetric controllers, syringe drivers, and other delivery systems. Most modern infusion devices require specific connector types (e.g., Luer lock, spike size) and drip chamber configurations. Using mismatched tubing can result in inaccurate flow rates, alarms, or disconnections. Always consult the manufacturer's specifications for both the pump and the giving set to confirm compatibility.

• Type of IV Therapy

  The nature of the treatment determines the appropriate type of giving set:

  • Primary Sets: Used for continuous administration of fluids or medications over extended periods.
  • Secondary (Piggyback) Sets: Ideal for intermittent medication delivery through the same line as primary fluids.
  • Blood Transfusion Sets: Designed with larger internal diameters and integrated filters (typically 170–200 microns) to safely deliver blood products without damaging red cells.
  • Volumetric Sets: Provide precise control over infusion volume and rate, essential for critical care, pediatrics, and chemotherapy.

  Selecting the correct set based on therapy type enhances treatment accuracy and minimizes risks such as drug incompatibility or hemolysis.

• Materials and Safety Features

  High-quality materials are vital for durability and patient safety. Look for giving sets made from medical-grade PVC or non-PVC alternatives (like TPE), which resist kinking, cracking, and chemical degradation. Key safety features include:

  • Air Elimination Devices: Prevent air embolism by trapping and removing air bubbles before they enter the bloodstream.
  • In-Line Filters: Remove particulate matter (e.g., 0.22 µm for bacteria, 1.2 µm for particulates) to reduce infection and phlebitis risks.
  • Anti-Drip Valves: Stop fluid flow when the set is disconnected, preventing spills and contamination.
  • Clamp Mechanisms: Smooth-operating roller or slide clamps allow precise flow control.
• Ease of Use and Maintenance

  A user-friendly design improves workflow efficiency and reduces human error. Opt for giving sets with:

  • Clear, easy-to-read drip chambers for accurate rate monitoring.
  • Ergonomic clamps and connectors that require minimal force to operate.
  • Color-coded lines and labeling to distinguish between primary, secondary, or specialty infusions.
  • Single-use, sterile packaging to prevent contamination and simplify inventory management.

  While IV sets are generally disposable, ease of setup and priming contributes significantly to nurse efficiency and patient comfort.

• Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards

  Always choose IV giving sets that meet international regulatory standards such as:

  • ISO 1135:2022 – Standards for infusion equipment.
  • US FDA 510(k) clearance – Required for sale in the United States.
  • CE Marking – Indicates conformity with European health and safety regulations.
  • Health Canada Licensing – For use in Canadian healthcare facilities.

  Certified products undergo rigorous testing for biocompatibility, leakage, and performance under pressure, ensuring reliability in clinical environments.

Factor	Recommended Features	Common Risks of Poor Selection	Ideal Use Cases
Compatibility	Luer lock connectors, drip rate alignment (e.g., 20 gtts/mL)	Pump incompatibility, flow inaccuracies	Hospitals, ICUs, home care with infusion pumps
Therapy Type	Primary, secondary, blood, or volumetric sets	Drug incompatibility, hemolysis, dosing errors	General wards, oncology, transfusion units
Material & Safety	Non-PVC, air-eliminating chambers, in-line filters	Air embolism, particle contamination, allergic reactions	Pediatrics, long-term infusions, immunocompromised patients
User Experience	Clear drip chamber, smooth clamps, intuitive design	Flow errors, increased nursing time, misconnections	Emergency departments, busy clinics
Compliance	FDA, CE, ISO certified, sterile single-use packaging	Legal liability, recalls, infection outbreaks	All clinical settings, especially regulated environments

Pro Tip: Conduct regular staff training on IV set selection and setup procedures. Ensuring all clinicians understand the differences between primary, secondary, and blood sets can significantly reduce errors and improve patient safety.

Additional Considerations for Optimal IV Therapy

• Flow Rate Accuracy: Match the drop factor (10, 15, 20, or 60 gtts/mL) to your clinical needs—microdrip sets (60 gtts/mL) are ideal for pediatric or critical care.
• Length of Tubing: Standard lengths are 150–200 cm; longer sets may increase dead space and risk of contamination.
• Latex-Free Options: Choose latex-free materials to prevent allergic reactions in sensitive patients.
• Sustainability: Consider eco-friendly, non-PVC options to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance.
• Supplier Reliability: Source from reputable manufacturers with consistent quality control and responsive customer support.

Selecting the right IV giving set is more than a logistical decision—it's a critical component of safe, effective patient care. By evaluating compatibility, therapy requirements, safety features, usability, and regulatory standards, healthcare providers can ensure optimal infusion therapy outcomes. When in doubt, consult with clinical engineers, pharmacists, or biomedical teams to make evidence-based choices tailored to your facility’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Intravenous (IV) Giving Sets

Q1: What are the common types of IV sets?

A1: Intravenous (IV) giving sets come in various types, each designed for specific clinical applications. The most common types include:

• Standard Gravity-Flow IV Sets: Used for general fluid administration in hospitals and clinics. These sets rely on gravity to deliver fluids at a controlled rate and are commonly used for saline, dextrose, and antibiotic infusions.
• Volumetric Infusion Sets: Compatible with electronic infusion pumps, these sets allow for precise control over flow rates and are ideal for critical care, pediatrics, and chemotherapy.
• Blood Transfusion Sets: Designed with larger internal diameters and built-in filters to safely administer blood and blood products. These often include a drip chamber that accommodates slower, monitored flow.
• Microdrip Sets (60 drops/mL): Provide greater accuracy in small-volume infusions, commonly used in neonatal units or when administering potent medications.
• Macrodrip Sets (10–20 drops/mL): Suitable for rapid fluid replacement in emergency or surgical settings.
• Extension Sets: Allow for additional length and flexibility between the IV line and the patient, often used with central lines or portable infusion devices.

Each type is engineered to meet specific clinical needs, ensuring safe and effective delivery of therapy.

Q2: Are IV sets specific for certain treatments?

A2: Yes, IV sets are often tailored to specific therapies to ensure compatibility, safety, and efficacy. Specialized sets include:

• Enteral Feeding Sets: Designed for delivering nutrition directly into the gastrointestinal tract via feeding tubes. These are not compatible with IV access and are clearly differentiated to prevent dangerous misconnections.
• Insulin Infusion Sets: Used with insulin pumps, these sets are calibrated for low flow rates and are often made from materials that do not absorb insulin.
• Chemotherapy Sets: Constructed with non-PVC materials (e.g., polyolefin) to resist degradation from aggressive drugs and reduce leaching of harmful plasticizers.
• Viscous Medication Sets: Feature wider lumens and specialized connectors to handle thick solutions like immunoglobulins or lipid emulsions without clogging.
• Anti-Siphon or Non-Drip Sets: Prevent backflow or unintended dripping, crucial in sensitive infusions such as analgesics or in pediatric care.

Manufacturers customize these sets to align with drug properties, patient needs, and regulatory standards, minimizing risks and enhancing treatment outcomes.

Q3: How does one select an intravenous giving set?

A3: Selecting the appropriate IV giving set involves evaluating several key factors to ensure patient safety and therapeutic effectiveness:

• Type of Therapy: Determine whether the infusion involves fluids, medications, blood, or nutrition, as each requires a different set design.
• Flow Rate Requirements: Choose microdrip sets for precision in low-volume infusions or macrodrip sets for rapid fluid delivery.
• Compatibility with Equipment: Ensure the set is compatible with the infusion pump or gravity setup being used. Pump-driven systems require sets designed for that specific device.
• Material Safety: Consider whether the patient has latex allergies or requires non-PVC sets (e.g., for neonates or long-term infusions) to avoid exposure to DEHP or other additives.
• Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the set meets FDA, CE, or ISO standards and is approved for the intended use.
• Safety Features: Look for built-in protections such as anti-reflux valves, air-elimination filters, needle-free connectors, and tamper-evident packaging.
• Duration of Use: For extended infusions, consider sets with antimicrobial coatings or those designed to minimize bacterial ingress.

Proper selection supports clinical efficiency and reduces complications such as infiltration, infection, or medication errors.

Q4: Do giving sets have expiration dates?

A4: Yes, all sterile IV giving sets have a manufacturer-assigned expiration date printed on the packaging. This date indicates the period during which the product is guaranteed to remain sterile, structurally intact, and functionally reliable—provided it is stored under recommended conditions (e.g., dry, cool, away from direct sunlight).

• Why Expiration Matters: Over time, plastic components may degrade, connectors can become brittle, and packaging integrity may be compromised, increasing the risk of contamination.
• Infection Risk: Using an expired set may introduce pathogens or particulate matter into the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis or phlebitis.
• Performance Issues: Degraded tubing or faulty drip chambers can result in inaccurate flow rates or complete infusion failure.
• Clinical Protocol: Healthcare facilities strictly enforce expiration checks as part of infection control and quality assurance policies. Expired sets must be discarded and never used on patients.

Always inspect packaging and expiration dates before use to maintain patient safety and regulatory compliance.

Q5: Which materials are used to make giving sets?

A5: IV giving sets are manufactured from medical-grade materials selected for biocompatibility, flexibility, and chemical resistance. The most commonly used materials include:

Material	Common Uses	Key Benefits	Considerations
Medical-Grade PVC	Standard IV sets, blood transfusion sets	Flexible, transparent, cost-effective, compatible with many drugs	May contain DEHP (a plasticizer), which is restricted in neonatal and reproductive health settings
Polyurethane (PU)	Catheters, long-term infusion lines	Durable, kink-resistant, excellent flexibility	Higher cost; may absorb certain lipid-based medications
Silicone	Long-term indwelling lines, pediatric applications	Highly biocompatible, soft, resistant to temperature changes	Less durable; prone to tearing; expensive
Latex-Containing Rubber	Older stopcocks or injection ports (now largely phased out)	Elastic, good seal integrity	Risk of allergic reactions; most modern sets are latex-free
Non-PVC Plastics (e.g., TPE, PO)	Chemotherapy, neonatal, and sensitive infusions	DEHP-free, environmentally safer, drug-compatible	May be less flexible; higher production cost

Material selection plays a critical role in patient safety, drug stability, and environmental impact. Modern trends favor DEHP-free, latex-free, and eco-friendly alternatives, especially in vulnerable populations.