Our facility uses a neutral needleless connector extension set. These have a clamp on them. There seems to be some skin/pressure issues caused by the clamp. Since there is no clamping sequence necessary for neutral connectors, why is there a clamp? Is there any hazard to removing the clamp. Or better yet does anyone know of a product that comes without a clamp. Right now we are ordering a specialty item that is costly.
Thank you, Celia
Is the needleless connector permanently bonded to the extension set or not? If it is not bonded, I think the clamp would be needed because the NC could easily be disconnected accidentally. Are you talking about using these on a PIV or CVAD? If one a CVAD, I would want the extra security of the clamp to prevent air emboli. If bonded, there would not be as much risk, but I would not like to use a bonded one. I strongly believe that a NC should not be used for any continuous infusion in hospitalized patients. The new SHEA Compendium Chapter on CLABSI includes a statement about the use of NCs for continuous infusion is an unknown issue. I don't understand why the clamp could possibly be causing skin issues because they can easily be moved to a different location on the extension set. How long is the extension set? Is it too short to move the clamp outside of the area of the dressing? Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861