Heparinized Versus Normal Saline for Maintenance of IV Access in Neonates: An Evidence-Based Practice Change

Authors

Linda L. Cook, Sacred Heart UniversityFollow
Sandra Bellini, University of Connecticut
Regina M. Cusson, University of Connecticut

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

6-2011

Abstract

Purpose: To design, implement, and evaluate an evidence-based practice change regarding the use of heparin in intravenous (IV) locks to improve patient safety. Phase I of the project examined dwell time, hours of patency, etc, for IV access devices prior to and following the practice change from heparinized saline (HS) to normal saline (NS) flush. Phase II of the project compared staff knowledge scores before and after an educational offering surrounding the practice change.

Comments

At the time of publication Linda L. Cook was affiliated with Danbury Hospital, Danbury, Connecticut.

DOI

10.1097/ANC.0b013e31821bab61

PMID

21730915

Recommended Citation

Cook, L.L., Bellini, S. & Cusson, R.M. (2011). Heparinized versus normal saline for maintenance of IV access in neonates: An evidence-based practice change. Advances in Neonatal Care 11(3), 208-215.

Publication

Advances in Neonatal Care

Volume

11

Issue

3

Pages

208-215