Our facility is in the process of updating our discontinuation of central venous catheter policy. I've read a couple of sources that recommend having the patient lay flat for 30 minutes following this procedure. Does anyone know what best practice is in regards to this? INS Standards do not address it. Thanks in advance.
INS Standards do not address it because there is no evidence to support a specific time. And we will probably never get any evidence due to ethical reasons for such as study. In researching literature for legal cases I have found 15, 30, and 60 minutes. So your facility will just have to pick a time that you prefer. Also there is no evidence to say that a specific time is required IF you have a removal site that is appropriately sealed with a petroleum based ointment dressing. This is one of those complications where we have to rely on case reports and animal studies.
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
Thanks Lynn. This is helpful.
Wendy Douglas BS, RN VA-BC