We are trialing PowerPICCs right now and several physicians have approached me with their concern over the heparin flush required by our flush policy for open-ended central catheters[10ml NaCl and 2ml Heparin(100 units/ml) Q 8hrs when not in use and after blood draws]. They would like us to change to Saline only flushes. Have any of your hospitals or services gone to saline only flushing? Do you know of any articles supporting this practice. I found one on PubMed from Transfus. Sci June 1997...but that's it. I reviewed the postings in the archives--just would like to get an idea of how many hospitals are actually heparin-free as far as Central line flushing. We are using the MaxPlus cap. I've heard of a "neutral" pressure cap, anyone using those? Thanks so much Tanya I.V. Support SHMC Eugene, OR
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