Cannulas should be flushed regularly to maintain their patency and prevent complications.
When to Flush a Cannula:
- Before and after medication administration: Flushing before medication ensures the line is clear and the medication reaches its destination. Flushing afterward prevents the medication from clotting in the cannula.
- Before and after blood draws: Flushing before a blood draw helps clear the line of any residual medication or blood. Flushing afterward prevents clotting and ensures the cannula remains patent.
- Every 4 hours if not in use: This helps prevent clotting and ensures the cannula remains usable.
- Immediately after discontinuation: Flushing the cannula after removal helps clear the line of any remaining blood or medication.
Practical Insights:
- Use a saline solution for flushing.
- Use a syringe with a volume of 10 mL or less for flushing.
- Flush gently to avoid damage to the cannula.
- Observe the flow of the saline solution to ensure the cannula is patent.
Solutions:
- If the cannula is not flushing properly, try using a larger syringe or flushing with a different solution.
- If the cannula is still not flushing, it may need to be replaced.
