We are currently using heparin flush in pediatric populations and in our adult non-valved PICCs and ports (for the most part following the INS flushing tables). A question has arisen regarding discontinuing the use of heparins in all PICCs. I wanted to get a sense of what other institutions are doing. Is the use of heparin in non-valved PICCs still standard? If you've tried to get away from it, what problems have you encountered?
Thank you,
Kristi Selck, RN, BSN
Forum topic
Thu, 02/18/2016 - 19:52
#1
Heparin flush
There is a great deal of new information in the 2016 Standards of Practice, Flushing and Locking. Heparin would be used for locking instead of flushing. Research now shows you can use heparin 10 units per mL OR saline as studies show similar outcomes for both solutions. One is not superior to the other. Please read the entire content of this new and expanded standard. 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