Hello:
When we de-access a port/Huber needle we flush with 300 units of heparin. If the needle stays in we flush with 30 units in between medications. Question, if we are doing the Q7day Huber needle change (de-access/access again), and putting in a new needle right away should we heparin lock with 30 units or 300 units?
According to the published evidence and the INS Standards of Practice, either normal saline or heparin lock 10 units per mL is recommended for ALL CVADs, including implanted ports. There is evidence supporting using NS or hep lock 10 units per mL for locking an implanted port when it is left accessed and being used on a scheduled basis and for the monthly access and flushing/locking. Please see INS Standard on Flushing and Locking and the supporting list of references. 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