Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. PROCEDURE: FLUSHING AT HICKMAN CATHETER PURPOSE: To keep central line free from cloning or clogging when not in constant use. INDICATIONS: - At the end of each infusion. - As ordered by the M.D. to keep patient when not in use. - After drawing tab specimens. SUPPLIES: - Alcohol wipes. - 3-5cc premixed Heparin flush. as ordered. - 3-5cc .9% normal saline. - 2Occ normal saline after blood draws. 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Wash hands thoroughly. 3. Assemble supplies - on alcohol cleansed work area. 4. Unclamp catheter (if applicable). 5. Swab injection cap with alcohol. Insert needle of normal saline into the hub of the cap and inject slowly. 6. Insert needle of premixed Heparin solution into the needle of the cap and inject slowly. 7. Coil, clamp (if applicable) and tape catheter to patients chest over dressing. *If injection cap is not in place i.e., following an infusion, clamp and place a sterile injection cap at the end of the Hickman or Broviac line and proceed with procedure. *The catheter is adequately protected from clotting only when an infusion, is running or when an injection cap is in place, and has been irrigated with Heparin flush, etc. *There should be no resistance when instilling the flush. If there is, check to be sure you have removed the clamp. DO NOT FORCE. If resistance continues, call M.D. Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-109