Technique/Maintenance Central IVs

flushing CVC

Pronunciation

(flsh'ng)

Definitions

To wash out with a full stream of fluid.

Application

The nurse flushed the peripherally inserted central catheter with 5 mL of preservative-free sodium chloride in a 10-mL syringe and followed the flush with 5 mL of 10 units/mL of heparin using a push-pause method.

Keep in Mind

For central catheters the following protocol is recommended. Central catheters should be flushed with a minimum of 5 mL of sodium chloride using a single- use 10-mL syringe. Lock the device with 5 mL of 10 unit/mL of heparin. For ports use 3–5 mL of 100 units/mL heparin to lock device.

*NOTE: Refer to Bonus PICC, Tunneled Catheter, and Port Placements , Flushing Guidelines.