Treb4K

we had nimodipine shortage a couple of months ago, but we never have to start our patients on cardene gtt. in our institution, we usually use cardene gtt to control the BP of our "untreated" SAH population. after intervention, (i.e. coiling or clipping) we generally keep these patients' BP HIGH according to the parameter set by the neurosurgeons.

I am curious about nursing practice of other NeuroICUs regarding ICP transducer changes. I work in a 20-bed NeuroICU with a large SAH population. Most of these patients' EVD stay in place for more than a week. Our unit policy is to change the transducer every 4 days, using aseptic technique. It is also our policy to use aseptic technique when initially setting up the EVD system, including the attachment of the transducer to the monitoring port of the EVD system. Subsequent changes of the transducer, seem to be breaking the integrity of the system and could potentially contaminate it. We are thinking of changing this policy. Inputs are highly appreciated. Thanks!