kc4nrsng

Amen.. we are trying to get out surgeons to add to post op orders

Yes like a heparin lock w/o the heparin. For example; on post op day one morning we will stop running fluids and saline lock the cordis to take the patient for a walk and then not restart any fluids as most of the time they will transfer to tele once the surgeon or the PA has rounded and written orders. Sometimes the patient might not be able to transfer for one reason or another but they don't need fluid running; in those situations we have been under the impression that they shouldn't be left saline locked. We have an order post operatively to TKO fluids when patient is taking po fluids well. Usually they can't get enough; but we only run the fluid at 30ml/hr anyway. It seems like there is no evidence-base practice out there.?

We do that as well. However before they transfer do you stop running fluid through it?

Was looking for practice issues in other areas regarding the "locking off" of the cordis/introducer. I work in a post surgical unit and we use them for our open heart patients. We have a lot of varying information regarding locking those catheters before we have an order to discontinue. Any thoughts out there?