Do you hold TPN for PICC blood draws?

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What Members Are Saying (AI-Generated Summary)

Members are discussing the proper procedure for drawing blood samples from a PICC line that has TPN running through it. There is a consensus that TPN and other infusions should be turned off for a period of time before accessing the line to ensure accurate results and prevent contamination. Some members recommend flushing with normal saline, discarding blood, and following specific steps to obtain samples accurately, while others suggest avoiding drawing from the TPN lumen altogether and opting for a standard venipuncture. Additionally, there is mention of following correct order of draw and hospital policies regarding this procedure.

:specs:Hi...newbie here...When taking a blood sample from a PICC line which has TPN running in it, how long do you turn off the TPN before you can access the line? I know you are supposed to flush with NS, then discard 10cc's of blood, then access the blood sample needed, then flush again. But isnt there a rule about hold the TPN or certain fluids for a time? Thanks.

Our hospital policy is to NOT draw labwork from a PICC that has TPN running through it. This is recent, as we had a number of attempts at shutting off, flushing, everything to try and get normal bloodwork, and still came up with ridiculous glucose and K+ levels. So....anyone who needs labwork and has TPN gets a good ol' venipuncture, that's it.

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Specializes in Pediatrics (Burn ICU, CVICU).
crawlyberry said:
Hi...newbie here...When taking a blood sample from a PICC line which has TPN running in it, how long do you turn off the TPN before you can access the line? I know you are supposed to flush with NS, then discard 10cc's of blood, then access the blood sample needed, then flush again. But isnt there a rule about hold the TPN or certain fluids for a time? Thanks.

Be sure to check with your institutions policy/procedure. There should be one in place for such things.

Also, I assume you are working with adults? I am always fearful that someone may automatically assume to waste 10mls and not take into consideration the size of the pt. Of course, you would not want to waste off 10ml from a infant/small child or sometimes even a bigger person if they have a really low H&H. Occassionally, venipuncture is your best bet, regardless of access.

I'm sure you know all of this information, I just tend to be a little protective of the small fries!

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