Advocating for Legislation to Phase Out Use of Select Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate Plastic Supplies in Health Care Delivery in North Carolina: Overview and Objectives

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, otherwise known as “DEHP,”  is a chemical that makes plastics more flexible. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate is also a known endocrine-disrupting compound for which there is no safe level of exposure. Despite decades of research demonstrating that exposure to phthalates, such as DEHP, can increase cancer risk, reproductive and developmental risks, and other endocrine abnormalities, DEHP remains in IV bags and tubing and is still legal in 49 states. This webinar covers successful state legislation in California and current efforts in North Carolina to ban DEHP in IV tubing and bags. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss the purpose of DEHP in IV tubing and the potential health effects of exposure.
2. Identify 2 populations most at risk from prolonged DEHP exposure.
3. Describe 2 steps that nurses can take in their daily practice to advocate for safer IV tubing including alternatives.

Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number 17198, for 1 contact hour.