Equipment Needed
Saline Lock (also known as; Luer Lock, Hep Lock, INT)
It is important to note that there are
multiple types of saline locks; needle less, puncture, combo, or
puncture but can use “soft” needles. I prefer needle less. Just safer
and require no special equipment.
Saline Flush (3ml min up to 10ml).
These may come packaged or you might have to
draw up your own from a source Tape/Tegaderm/Op-site/etc
Indications/Contraindications
Indicated for patients who only need intermittent fluids or no
fluids but drugs.
Indicated for patients who may need fluids latter but not right
away.
Contraindications
None. You can establish this even if you are going
to push a lot of fluids and just want it there.
How to
Step 1
Prep equipment. Flush your lock (some say you done
need to, but is a personal preference of mine). Open all packages. Some
locks you can go ahead and attach your flush, especially if you have an
extension on it.
Step 2
You may already have an IV in place (DCing fluids and
switching to a lock) or might have just initiated an IV. Either way you
need a catheter to attach to.
Step 3
While occluding your IV access screw on the lock.
Step 4
I like to draw back on the flush and get a little
blood return (if I have time) just for that extra confirmation that the
sight is patent. Then push your flush at a good pace, but not to fast to
blow the vein. Look for S/S of infiltration.
Step 5
Disconnect flush and secure lock with tape/tegaderm/op-site.
Follow on
Saline Locks should be flushed occasionally to
ensure your catheter does not clot, and the vein is patent. To access
your lock simply wipe it down with an alcohol prep pad and plug up you
fluids or syringe.
Notes
Saline Locks are great for those patients who don’t necessarily need
IV fluids but you do need access to. In the militaries case they can be
useful for that trauma you have. You can establish access now and flow
fluids later when you need/can (however it should be noted that I have
never run into this case yet).
