We use Power PICCs and place the Statlock about 1 cm from the insertion site (unless it needed to be pulled back another 1-2 cm!), but we always place the dressing so the entire statlock is covered. We have large enough dressings in our kits to accomplish this.
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 Kelly Murphy Sent: Wednesday, October 11, 2006 7:53 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Occlusive Dressing What is the best way to achieve a truly occlusive dressing? We have two issues that make us question if you can ever get a truly occlusive dressing. . . the first is one that will be eliminated when we finally convert to inserting Power PICCs only. Right now, we use Groshongs and when there is extra catheter, what is the proper way to ensure occlusiveness (is that a word?). I try to make sure that all extra catheter remains under the dressing. Others have used 2 statlocks and left some of the catheter and the second statlock hanging out of the dressing. I don't like this practice for fear of the patient pulling it (which they will), but was wondering if there was a protocol. Secondly, when I use a statlock, I try to put it as close to the insertion site as possible, hoping to anchor it more securely. Others will put it a little further away and then the edge of the dressing goes over part of the statlock, but the entire statlock isn't covered. In fact, half of the clip is exposed. This makes for a dressing that is not "air-tight" and hence could let bacteria in. I know the answers to these questions already, but just wanted a little back-up for when I present it to my coworkers. Thanks! Kelly __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com 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.
