5. Routine care of CVC - con't.
Arterial ports: Obtain specific flushing order from the surgeon. Usually 5,000 - I 0,000 units of heparin after use. May experience resistance while flushing.
Peritoneal ports: Do not require routine heparin flushes. Obtain specific orders from the physician.
Epidural catheters: Use only preservative-free solutions. Obtain specific order.
Dialysis catheters: Requires 5,000 units in 2-3 ml heparin flushes. Obtain specific order for heparin dosage and frequency. Flushed after dialysis.
Procedure
- Wash hands and gather supplies
- Clean the injection cap with betadine.
- Allow the betadine to dry or wipe off excess betadine with a sterile gauze.
- Insert the needle into the middle of the septum and flush slowly.
As you flush the last half ml, slowly close the clamp to form positive pressure in the catheter. This will minimize reflux of blood into the catheter.
If experiencing resistance while flushing, check the catheter clamp. Check the tubing for kinks. Never power-push to flush a catheter. This will expel the clot into the system causing an emboli or damage the catheter.
