Heparin (1 U/ml) flushes of peripheral venous catheters prolongs their potency

The antithrombotic effects of heparin have led to its use as a flush solution for peripheral intravascular infusion devices. On p 969 Randolph et al report a systematic review of the benefit of heparin in peripheral venous and arterial catheters. Current evidence supports discontinuing the practice of flushing peripheral venous catheters that are locked between use with 10 U/ml of heparin solution. However, heparin significantly prolongs the duration of peripheral arterial catheter patency and decreases the risk of clots. In peripheral venous catheters heparin added to the infusion at 1 U/ml decreases phlebitis and may decrease infusion failure.


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Relevant Article

Benefit of heparin in peripheral venous and arterial catheters: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Adrienne G Randolph, Deborah J Cook, Calle A Gonzales, and Maureen Andrew
BMJ 1998 316: 969-975. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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