Changing Practice: Eliminating Heparin Locks in Central Line Care

Nursing

Changing Practice: Eliminating Heparin Locks in Central Line Care

Topic Description : Decades ago in the 1990’s, nursing stopped flushing and locking lines with heparin. Today many systems are moving to discontinue heparin usage in central lines as well. This presentation will review the research that supports flushing central lines with saline, as well as provide insight on making the change a reality. Results will also be shared.

Topic Description : Decades ago in the 1990's, nursing stopped flushing and locking lines with heparin. Today many systems are moving to discontinue heparin usage in central lines as well. This presentation will review the research that supports flushing central lines with saline, as well as provide insight on making the change a reality. Results will also be shared.

Learning Objectives

Discuss the background situation for changing the flushing protocol and eliminating heparin.

Describe the literature review of journal articles supporting the change to saline-only flushing and locking of central lines.

Identify methods to engage stakeholders and build confidence in the change of protocol.

Speaker(s)

Julie Deane RN, MAEd, CRNI
Clinical Education Specialist
Fairview Home Infusion