Port a cath question

Published

Specializes in Occ health, Med/surg, ER.

I have browsed this site and still havent come up with an answer to my question. I cant find my IV theory book so Im at a loss.

Question: What is the smallest syringe that can be used to flush a port a cath? Does this apply to all pushes given through the cath as well?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Never use anything smaller than a 10cc syringe on a port or a CVL. Anything smaller has too much pressure behind it. Hope that helps!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Clinical Infusion Educator.

To ascertain patency of a vascular access device, or a patency of any catheter over 3" in length, always use a 10cc syringe with the appropriate amt of saline. Smaller syringes will generate PSI's of over 60. If there was a blood clot at catheter's tip, this much pressure could send it free-floating causing a PE, or it could rupture the IV catheter.

However once that patency has been confirmed, then use the size of syringe appropriate for what you are giving. ie.. a small U100 syringe to administer regular insulin IV.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion