KARACHI: The Sindh Drug Testing Laboratory has declared intravenous (IV) infusion sets manufactured by five different companies as substandard, raising fresh concerns over the quality of medical equipment and infection-control practices in the province.
According to Director of the Sindh Drug Testing Laboratory Adnan Rizvi, samples of the five IV infusion sets failed to meet the required quality standards during laboratory testing. The tubing length of the products was found to be inconsistent with prescribed specifications, while the material used in their manufacturing was also found to be below the required quality standards.
The samples were collected from Naushahro Feroze and Karachi’s Malir area and were subsequently tested at the provincial Drug Testing Laboratory. The products were declared substandard under the Medical Devices Rules, 2017.
The laboratory has forwarded its findings to the concerned drug inspectors for further action. The test reports have also been shared with the Secretary of the Sindh Quality Control Board.
The development comes amid ongoing concerns over HIV infections in Sindh, particularly following an outbreak linked to Valika Hospital in Karachi. Previous investigations into the outbreak identified serious infection-control lapses, including improper sterilisation practices and the suspected reuse of syringes.
Health experts and authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining strict infection-control standards in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Medical devices such as IV infusion sets are routinely used to administer medicines and fluids directly into patients’ veins, making their quality and safety particularly important.
The latest laboratory findings have therefore highlighted the need for stronger monitoring of medical-device manufacturers, suppliers, hospitals and healthcare facilities across Sindh.
Authorities are now expected to review the laboratory findings and take action against the companies or suppliers involved in the distribution of products that fail to meet prescribed standards.
