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Wed, 08/26/2015 - 15:21

Cindybr76

Heparin Flush in CVL in the pediatric population

Hello everyone. I am trying to get info regarding heparin flushes on central lines. How often? If you use only saline ? and How much heparin dwell if used on ports.? thank in advance. If you are willing to share your policy stating heparin flush guidelines would be great. Thanks Cindy

Wed, 08/26/2015 - 19:55

lynncrni

Heparin is used to lock the

Heparin is used to lock the catheter. Normal saline is used to flush and lock the catheter. The pediatrics chapter in the INS textbook has all these details or the INS Flushing Cards - www.ins1.org. Frequency is the same as for adults - after each intermittent use and when there is a clinical indication (sluggishy flow, pump beeping occlusion alarm). There are no recommendations for a routine or scheduled flush or lock when the catheter is being used for continuous infusion. Lynn

Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, CRNI

Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.

PO Box 10

Milner, GA 30257

Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com

Office Phone 770-358-7861

Thu, 08/27/2015 - 15:29

(Reply to #2) #3

Cindybr76

Thank s Lynn for your

Thank s Lynn for your imformation. Any research showing the benefits using heparin rather then saline. We currently used heparin and saline (SASH) to flush and lock our catheters and our organization is looking at not using heparin. Cindy

Cindy Brown RN BSN CPN

IV Nurse Educator/Clinician

Thu, 08/27/2015 - 19:14

(Reply to #3) #4

lynncrni

Studies now show that the

Studies now show that the outcome with both lock solutions are equal. One is not better or worse than the other. Don't think you will find what you are looking for. Lynn