On the Topic of CAPS--Are you using different needleless devices for Peripheral vs CVC devices--In our Adult population currently we are using the Interlink system (changing to Clearlink in the next few months--A needleless system that requires the Nurse to flush and clamp before removing the syringe) for Peripheral and CLC for CVCs (A needleless system that requires the Nurse to flush and remove the syringe prior to clamping)--Are there hospital systems out there using one Nuetral cap for all IV devices--We are a very Large hospital system with Thousands of Nurses and the nightmare that is Valve technology was the Topic of the day!!!!Â
To prevent confusion and mistakes, we use one cap for all IV.
We decided to go with Positive Pressure Fluid Displacement caps that eliminate Heparin flushes but it did require extensive in service.
Since we switched in November 2007, we have seen a dramatic reduction in occlusions rate. Everyone loves Saline Lock. Some nurses still prefer to clamp the tubing after flushing, which is not necessary, but at least they know to remove the syringe after flushing, before they clamp.
Having one cap for all IV eliminates a lot of confusion.
What brand?
Gwen Irwin
RIVKA--What Positive Displacement Cap are you using?
Robbin George RN VA-BC
We use MaxPlus, you should evaluate two or three different kind before you make up your mind what is best for you.
If you have other questions about the product, you can email me: [email protected]
Some hospitals use 1 cap for almost all situations to maximize education and to try and limit use errors like incorrect clamping. However many larger hospitals especially teaching which are more likely to support an infusion team will use 2 different types of caps and some even 3 types of caps if they also provide home infusion services.
Some use negative pressure caps for peripheral or floor IV use because the clamping procedure is more straight forward; and use positive pressure caps for all CVC lines and in critical care, while some use another brand of positive pressure cap for all home infusion lines and ports, although this is less common to maintain continuity of care.