Groshong PICCS

memphispanda, RN · Jun 26, 2004

According to the Bard website, heparin is not necessary for the Groshong, but will not harm it. http://www.bardaccess.com/faq/q_a.html

caroladybelle, BSN, RN · Jun 26, 2004

Groshongs (PICC or centrals) do not need to be heparinized.

I will say that I do not like the Groshong PICCs. They break more frequently and do not work as well as other PICCs. They tend to have a more narrow lumen that is problematic with many infusions.

bobnurse · Jan 5, 2005

Groshongs (PICC or centrals) do not need to be heparinized.
I will say that I do not like the Groshong PICCs. They break more frequently and do not work as well as other PICCs. They tend to have a more narrow lumen that is problematic with many infusions.

Love groshong catheters.........I must admit, we did have a probelm with them breaking when not secured properly....A few inservices ended that problem. What type do you use? Ive tried out many about 5 years ago when we started our PICC program..I didnt really find one i liked as compared to the groshong...We almost switched brands due to the high fracture rate in the single lumens....But we did inservices instead........

And groshongs never need heparin.........You can use it.........but dont have to.

IVRUS, BSN, RN · Jan 11, 2005

Bard does make a PICC, called the Power PICC which is an open ended IV catheter which does require heparinization, However, All of the Groshong catheters (Midlines, PICC's, Tunneled Groshongs and a Groshong Implanted Ports) do not require heparin secondary to their unique valved end.

Diane

PICC chic · Jan 13, 2005

We had a state surveyor tell us last week (home health agency) that there are new types of Groshong PICCS that can clot off if one uses heparin to flush it. I've never heard of this. I know that Groshong PICCS have the 2 way slits/valves so you don't need heparin, but I didn't think it would clot with Heparin. I really wanted to argue with her, but being the state surveyor, thought it was best not to! Can anyone enlighten me?

I place BARD groshong PICC's everyday and have done so for years, heparin will not clot the line! Knowing the indications for heparin, I can't imagine how she could make that assumption. You can always contact your rep for manufacture guidelines.