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.
|
S |
Saline Flush |
Ensures patency of the line and clears the line of residual medication |
|
A |
Administer |
Administration of the medication or connection of the infusion |
|
S |
Saline Flush |
Ensures patency of the line and clears the line of residual medication |
|
H |
Heparin
(If the device requires heparin for patency) |
To minimize the potential of a blood clot forming inside the central line lumen |
* Cleanse needleless connector with alcohol - 15 second scrub and allow to air dry
* Aspirate for blood return to ensure line patency before each access