Flushing a catheter involves using a sterile solution to clear blockages and maintain patency. This process is crucial for preventing infections and ensuring proper catheter function. Never attempt to flush a catheter without proper training from a medical professional. The following steps are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Steps to Flush a Catheter (Based on Provided Information):
The provided video snippet mentions encountering resistance during flushing. This highlights a critical point: if you encounter resistance, stop immediately and seek medical attention. Do not force the fluid.
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Gather Supplies: You'll need a sterile syringe (usually 10-50 mL, depending on the catheter and your doctor's order), a container of sterile saline solution (normal saline, NS), and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves.
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Prepare the Saline: Draw the specified amount of sterile saline into the syringe.
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Attach the Syringe: Connect the syringe to the catheter's injection port.
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Flush the Catheter: Gently push the plunger to instill the saline solution into the catheter.
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Observe for Resistance: If you encounter any resistance while pushing the plunger, immediately stop. Do not force the fluid. Remove the syringe from the catheter and seek medical assistance.
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Release and Remove: After instilling the saline, remove the syringe from the catheter.
Important Considerations:
- Sterile Technique: Maintaining a sterile technique is critical to prevent infection. Use sterile supplies and follow proper handwashing procedures.
- Resistance: Resistance during flushing indicates a potential blockage or other complication requiring immediate medical attention. Never force fluid into a catheter.
- Medical Supervision: Catheter flushing should ideally be performed under the supervision of a healthcare professional. This information is for general knowledge only and does not replace professional medical guidance.
