SASH Technique

The Infusion Nurses Society’s, Infusion Nursing Standards of Practice clearly define three purposes of catheter flushing; to assess catheter function, to maintain catheter patency, and to prevent contact between incompatible medications or fluids that could produce a precipitate. For effective catheter flushing, the nurse must have an understanding of technique and the equipment used within his/her institution as well as the type of catheter in use. Specific flushing orders must be documented, including the saline amount and frequency, and the heparin concentration, amount, and frequency.

Download a printable copy of the SASH poster

This reference correlates to the online continuing education courses in our Infusion Section.