A nurse is caring for a patient with a central line and notices the flush port has not been used in the last 24 hours. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Flush the line with normal saline immediately

Rationale:

A central line is a type of catheter placed in a large vein that is used to administer medication or fluids, obtain blood tests, and directly obtain cardiovascular measurements. Proper maintenance of a central line is critical to prevent complications such as infection or blockage.
Flushing the line with normal saline helps to maintain patency of the catheter, preventing clot formation and ensuring that the line remains functional for future use.
The standard protocol for central line maintenance typically includes regular flushing with normal saline to prevent occlusion. This is especially important if the line has not been used for 24 hours, as stagnant blood can increase the risk of clot formation.

Explanation of Other Options:

Document the finding and inform the physician

Rationale: While it is important to document the finding and keep the physician informed, this action alone does not address the immediate need to maintain the patency of the central line. Immediate flushing is necessary to prevent complications.

Change the dressing on the line

Rationale: Changing the dressing is part of routine care to prevent infection at the insertion site. However, this does not address the issue of maintaining the patency of the line. The primary concern here is to ensure the line is not occluded, which requires flushing.

Remove the central line and insert a new one

Rationale: Removing and reinserting a central line is an invasive procedure that should only be done if absolutely necessary. Flushing the line is a simpler, non-invasive action that can resolve the issue of potential occlusion without subjecting the patient to additional risks associated with line insertion.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the most appropriate action is to flush the central line with normal saline immediately. This ensures that the line remains patent and functional, thereby preventing complications such as clot formation or occlusion.