Hep-locking a PICC lumen - documentation

[lwandel]

Yesterday was my medication administration day. I hep-locked a lumen on a double lumen PICC line. I want to make sure I'm documenting it correctly in my narrative notes.

Stopped PRN 0.9% NS infusion into red lumen of PICC line. Used aseptic technique to disconnect IV tubing from red lumen port, capped IV tubing connector, and flushed line with prescribed 300 Units/3 mL Heparin Lock Flush while maintaining asepsis under supervision of instructor.

I know the technical definition of "aseptic technique" is to use sterile gloves...but we used clean gloves. We made sure to quickly make the transition from disconnecting the IV tubing to connecting the heparin flush syringe and capping the IV tubing connector...is it considered "aseptic"? If not, how should I word that?

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

What does your instructor say?

Technically I would document....IVF dc'd. Good blood return. PICC line capped and flushed as per policy and procedure. Site negative for redness/swelling, See MAR.

[NicuGal, MSN, RN]

IV fluids to red lumen discontinued, positive blood return, line flushed and capped per policy and procedure. Site without redness or swelling, dressing intact.

Keep it simple. Unless your instructor wants all that in the note. If you did not use aseptic technique, don't document it.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

I wouldn't write this in a narrative note at all, just document it under where you document on your lines/tubes.

You flush PICCs with 100 u/mL heparin? I've never used 100 u/mL heparin on anything but a port-a-cath.

[IVRUS, BSN, RN]

I wouldn't write this in a narrative note at all, just document it under where you document on your lines/tubes.

You flush PICCs with 100 u/mL heparin? I've never used 100 u/mL heparin on anything but a port-a-cath.

Agree KelRN,

Standards say to always use the lowest amount of Heparin Flush solution in a catheter, except, as you said in implanted ports, then 100 units/ml is used. But, some organizations do not know, much follow standards.

[PennyS]

Agree KelRN,

Standards say to always use the lowest amount of Heparin Flush solution in a catheter, except, as you said in implanted ports, then 100 units/ml is used. But, some organizations do not know, much follow standards.

I am wondering if OP meant to write 30units/3ml? That would make more sense.