Collaborative Intravenous Nursing Service (CINS) Guidelines

Skin Tunnelled Catheters – 0.9% Sodium Chloride and Heparin 10 units/ml in 0.9% Sodium Chloride for injection Lock (STC2) forweekly maintenance Flush8ActionRationaleEquipment RequiredDressing Pack containing sterile towel and glovesGauze swabs x 3 and Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% in 70% Isopropyl alcohol orChlorhexidine Gluconate 2% in 70% Isopropyl alcohol impregnated wipe (sani cloth)10ml syringes x 210ml 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Saline)5ml Heparin 10units/ml in 0.9% Sodium ChlorideTwo green needles/filter straws (for glass ampoules).Sharps containerSurgical tapeAlcohol hand rub/gelPlastic apron10ml syringes should always be used;smaller syringe sizes may damage thecatheter (Hadaway 1998).Needle free I/V access connector change as per manufacturer’s guidelines seeNSF1 Cins guideline5ML HEPARIN SODIUM (10 UNITS/ML)FOR 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.• Explain the procedure to the patient. Ensure that valid consent is gained.• 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• Ensure working area is clean.Maintain asepsis and safety.Reduce risk of infection.Reduce anxietyPatient complianceTo avoid contamination.To ensure that the procedure can becarried out safely.The CINs group hereby assert their moral rights tothe works herein in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988.Policy review date 01/10/10