We have used the Power PICC ever since it came on the market, but our hospital infection control committee would not let the hospital change caps. I tried to change their mind several times, but they were too swayed by the last article by Dr. Maki that recommended NOT using the positive pressure caps. So far we have not had a problem with HIT. We use 250 u Heparin after 10-20 ml NS.
Kathleen Witt RN, BSN Nutrition Support Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas 214-345-7468 [EMAIL PROTECTED] -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nauman, Tanya Sent: Friday, September 29, 2006 2:52 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Perry, Stephen Subject: Saline only flushes for central catheters 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 ___________________________________________________________ This message is intended solely for the use of the individual and entity to whom it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable state and federal laws. If you are not the addressee, or are not authorized to receive for the intended addressee, you are hereby notified that you may not use, copy, distribute, or disclose to anyone this message or the information contained herein. If you have received this message in error, immediately advise the sender by reply email and destroy this message. The information contained in this message and any attachments is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is PRIVILEGED, CONFIDENTIAL, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you are prohibited from copying, distributing, or using the information. Please contact the sender immediately by return e-mail and delete the original message from your system.
