Blocked catheters and lines
NICE/Cochrane Review
Heparin versus 0.9% sodium chloride intermittent flushing for prevention of occlusion in central venous catheters in adults, Sept 2015 - there is no good evidence that flushing with heparin is better than saline.
Caution: There have been a number of instances where inappropriate strengths of heparin have been used as flush solutions.
Local Guidance
*Specialist advice must always be sought before administering these drugs to unblock lines.*
What to do with a completely blocked PICC (review due 2022)
| Pack | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 ampoule (10 x 5ml ampoules) | £14.96 |