Mary Lynn,
Since this is not a vascular space there is no blood
return, obviously. Our oncologists instruct us NOT to ever aspirate as it causes
irritation of the omentum. I would have never heard of injecting air. IF the
flow is not easy then there is reason to suspect a problem and have the dye
study done.
Lauren Blough, RN, BS,
CRNI
Educator/Clinical Specialist
Venous Access Specialist Team
Florida Hospital
601 E. Rollins St
Orlando, FL
32803
PH: 407-303-5600 X 3811 or 4066
Beeper: 407-303-5599 #
1448
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 1:41 PM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: peritoneal port check
Our ambulatory infusion area is getting more peritoneal ports for chemo
infusion into the peritoneal cavity. How do you check for placement
when there is not a fluid return. The Bard Peritoneal catheter instructions
state to be careful not to cause air embolis. The only check they advise
if you are unsure is a radiographic dye study. Some of the nurses that
work with these ports have been injecting a small amount of air and listening
over the abdomen with a stethoscope.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Mary Lynn Johnson RN, BSN, CRNI
Brenda Tully RN
IV Therapy
Deaconess, Spokane, Wa
