Flushing Hep Lockes

Erin RN · Oct 12, 2003

HI

Positive pressure refers to the fact that as you are flushing you clamp at the same time rather than flush, stop and then clamp..if you flush with 3 ccs as you are nearing the end clamp off the lock and remove the syringe. This further helps to keep the line open by keep positive pressure in the line..Did that make any sense??:chuckle

Erin

zacarias, ASN, RN · Oct 12, 2003

Flushing with heparin is generally not needed on peripheral IV lines unless your hospital does otherwise. Flushing with Heparin is usually required for non Groshong central caths and PICCS. Check protocol on your unit for best information.

Zach

Mimi2RN, ASN, RN · Oct 12, 2003

We use NS flushes on everything except 24 ga catheters. They clot off too easily, so for those we use Heparin.

RNsweetie · Oct 13, 2003

In the hospitals I have been in winnipeg; for peripheral IV just NS used, with positive pressure, but I have never had to flush a 24 ga, check procedure manual where you are to be sure.

Erin

P_RN, ADN, RN · Oct 13, 2003

Saline only (since about 1990) with the back pressure technique. I've only used adult size catheters though. Gosh a 24? Teeeny.

Erin RN · Oct 13, 2003

We always only used NS too except in Central lines (other than Groshong).. we never used it in the 24 gauge we put into the little ones in the ER but it is a good idea since it so darn hard to get them in, in the first place..the peds floor may have used heparin (not sure)..

happygray · Oct 13, 2003

::) I want to thank all of you for this information, this will help