Who should prepare and connect dialysis catheters for treatment? We currently allow only the RNs to access any central venous catheter. In the dialysis unit, the techs are sterilely preparing the line for connection but cannot connect the catheter to the dialysis machine. Once the tech prepares the line, the nurse is to connect the catheter to the machine. We have learned that that there could be 5-15 minutes of time delay before the nurse is available to connect the catheter to the dialysis machine once the catheter is clean. What is the best practice for preparing a dialysis catheter for the treatment and who should be performing this task? Can this task be delegated to dialysis techs?
I can not tell you the answer but this, like all other scope of practice questions, may vary from state to state. I would suggest you look at which state agency is governing the practice dialysis techs in your state for this answer. I know that I have seen info about these techs flushing lines but am not in my office today to tell you where I saw this. 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