Flushing with pressors

Published

Specializes in MICU, SICU, CICU.

Quick question for you guys.

In my unit it is standard procedure that when we D/C an infusion of vasoactive medications (dopamine, levophed, etc) from the central line that we withdraw 3-5 mL of blood before flusing the line to withdraw the med and flush safely.

However there are times I cannot get bloodflow no matter how I reposition the patient, and the more experienced nurses have advised me to push the flush slowly. I have tried this, but still see a great rise in patient blood pressure. Is there a safer alternative when I can't withdraw the medication (short of changing the central line).

Thanks

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Flight.

yank the line... hold pressure.....

tell your pt not to take deep breath while you are dc'n the line.....

:cool:

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I would do what they said - flush really really slowly.......

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.

What about the POP method?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

What is the POP method?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.

I don't know if the POP method would be appropriate for this situation or not, and I don't feel comfortable describing it over the internet. I just thought maybe the OP might be familiar with it. If your facility has an IV support team, I would call them. Personally, I would feel very uncomfortable pushing anything into a central line from which I could not obtain a blood return.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU.

I'd check and see what your policy and procedure is on the unit.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, Infusion therapy, Oncology.

I agree with RainDreamer, check your facilities policy.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion