Collaborative Intravenous Nursing Service (CINS) Guidelines

Skin Tunnelled Catheters – Administration of antibiotics/infusion/additives (STC4)Administer drugs or IV therapy as prescribed using correct diluent and rate of infusion. Always use 10ml syringe, never use forceto flush the catheter.ActionRationaleEquipment RequiredDressing pack containing sterile towel and glovesGauze swabs x 3,Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% in 70% Isopropyl alcohol or Chlorhexidine Gluconate2% in 70% Isopropyl alcohol impregnated wipe10ml syringes x 42 x 10ml 0.9% Sodium Chloride for injection5ml Heparin10units/ml in 0.9% Sodium Chloride for injectionThree green needle/ filter straw.Sharps containerSurgical tapeAlcohol hand rub/gelAntibiotics/Infusion/additives as prescribedPlastic apron145ML HEPARINISED SALINE 10 UNITS/MLWITH OPEN ENDED CATHETER Before the procedure begins make sure that your hands are washed and driedthoroughly and that they continue to be decontaminated during the procedure. A plasticapron should be worn.• Maintain aseptic technique at all times.• Inspect the catheter exit site for signs of skin discolouration or signs of infection e.g.exudate from exit site. If you suspect infection please contact the hospital team whoplaced the catheter for advice. Refer to trouble-shooting guide.• Explain the procedure to the patient. Ensure that valid consent is gained.• Ensure working area is clean.• Ensure all equipment is gathered before commencing the procedure and all packagingis intact and in date.Reduce the risk of infection andcontamination.Ensures patient compliance and reduceanxietyThe CINs group hereby assert their moral rights tothe works herein in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988.Policy review date 01/10/10