With the saline flush shortage we are experiencing, our facility is trying to look for ways to cut down on the amount of flushes used. One solution offered was a TKO rate for lines (PIV/Midline/CVC). What would be appropriate rates for TKO? Any help is appreciated!
Using a KVO or TKO flow is an alternative to flushing. Great for those with multiple meds if you leave everything connected. I would not even beginn to offer a suggestion for a rate. Fluid infusion is a patient specific issue that requres a provider order. Or your facility can assess your patient populations, risk vs benefits of constant attachment to infujsion pump/pole and decide what is best for your situation. You can estalish a set protocol with a specific rate for all patients or require provider orders for the fluid and flow rate.
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
Thank you for the feedback. Along the lines of the saline flush shortage we are also experiencing a shortage in 10 ml syringes. In that case, is there another size of syringe that is recommended? Our facility is trying to trouble shoot the best alternative for the 10 ml's since that is best practice. Any suggestions on syringe sizes for all devices that would be safe to use?
For the first syringe used to assess patency and aspirate for blood return use at least a 10 ml syringe or larger. Do not go smaller on this first step. After patency has been confirmed, use any syringe size that works for the Med being given. Final saline flush and lock can be with 5 ml. NEVER promote using half of large syringe then save other half for final flush.
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
Thank you so much!