Tag: Catheter care

Patients with central lines, such as a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC), face the risk of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs), making it essential to know **how to tell if a PICC line is infected**. Proper education on early symptoms is crucial for patient safety and timely treatment.

One study found that over 60% of patients reported at least one potential complication or adverse effect related to their peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) after discharge [1.4.8]. Yes, **can a patient be discharged with a PICC line** is a common question, and it is a routine practice that allows for continued treatment at home [1.3.5].

According to one study, over 60% of patients with peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines experience at least one complication, including serious issues like deep vein thrombosis or bloodstream infections. To mitigate these risks, understanding what are four key regular nursing assessments that should be completed for PICC lines is fundamental for patient safety and optimal device function.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 75% of urinary tract infections (UTIs) acquired in hospitals are associated with urinary catheters. A **catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)** is undeniably the most common complication of catheters, posing a significant risk to patient health and recovery.

Recent clinical evidence shows that standardizing to normal saline for central line flushing is as effective as heparin for maintaining patency, with fewer risks like heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Determining **what is the best solution for flushing a catheter?** depends heavily on the catheter type, the reason for the flush, and specific patient factors.

Intravenous (IV) therapy is one of the most common medical procedures worldwide. A critical question for patient safety is, **do IV catheters expire?** The answer is yes; expiration dates are crucial because the catheter's materials can degrade and its sterility can be compromised over time [1.2.1, 1.3.4].

In over half of all acute hospital admissions, patients receive IV treatment [1.3.4]. A common question is, **how long is an IV line good for?** The answer depends on the type of catheter, its location, and clinical guidelines aimed at preventing complications.