Environmentally responsible use of hospital infusion systems: a systematic review of the literature.

Abstract

Background: The healthcare sector produces significant amounts of waste and harmful substances and consumes large amounts of energy; hence, it is also involved in the move towards sustainability. Plastics are everywhere in hospitals (especially in medical devices used for infusion) and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The objective was to review the scientific literature on ways of making in-hospital infusion practices more environmentally friendly.

Methods: The literature data were reviewed systematically and independently by two investigators and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Any differences of opinion were resolved by a third investigator. Four online databases (PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect and Web of Science) were searched for articles published in English or French between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2024. Only publications that address sustainable development and infusion medical devices were included. The following data were extracted: country, hospital department(s), and the study's objectives, methods, main results and conclusions. The robustness of the selected studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results: In all, 1938 publications were screened, and eight were included. Four publications concerned overconsumption and/or waste analysis, one compared single-use devices with reusable devices, and three were concerned with intravenous drug administration and wastage. The topics addressed in life cycle assessments were procurement, supply, storage, overconsumption of medical devices, the wastage of intravenous drugs and waste management.

Conclusion: The results highlighted some areas for improvement at various points in the medical device life cycle-from manufacturing to recycling. Collaboration between hospital stakeholders is essential for the promotion of environmentally friendly infusion practices.