Hello everyone! I wanted to get information on others policies...I have found some online but thought this would also help. I have to update our flush protocols and need to know what other hospitals do and have articles to back it. So far I have found nothing in INS but I am still looking. Any other places good to check?
When accessing an implanted port, do you waste the first 5mL of blood removed to discard the old heparin or check for blood and flush the line?
How often do you flush with heparin?
Every 12 hours?
After medications through out the day?
After blood draws? Contrast?
Thanks for any responses! Our educators are skittish because of HIT and don't think we should use heparin.
I asked our sales rep for the port brand we use and they suggested "per hospital policy"
interesting its not concentration dependent--Its a hassle going to the machine every time to get a heparin flush as only saline flushes are stocked in the rooms. It wouldnt hurt my feelings if our policy of heparin flushes "after every use" changed. The flush is 10cc saline followed by 5ml of 100units per ml heparin flush.
unless you are locking with 5000u/ml i wouldnt worry about flushing the heparin down the line. it is usually a small dose and it shouldnt be an issue, Even if you flush TPA down the line(cathflo) the half life is so little.
Joy16Sarah
46 Posts
interesting its not concentration dependent--Its a hassle going to the machine every time to get a heparin flush as only saline flushes are stocked in the rooms. It wouldnt hurt my feelings if our policy of heparin flushes "after every use" changed. The flush is 10cc saline followed by 5ml of 100units per ml heparin flush.