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Comment on this procedure
STANDARDS:
* Arterial Lines are to be removed prior to transferring patients to the ward * Arterial Lines sites should be rotated at least every seven (7) days or sooner if infection occurs
* Post removal Arterial Line site must be observed for bleeding, bruising and swelling frequently over the next 24 hours
* Upon removal of the arterial Line, Universal precautions must be maintained to avoid contamination of the health care worker through exposure to blood borne pathogens.
* Aseptic technique is used at the insertion site to decrease chances of infection to the patient.
OUTCOMES:
* The area around the catheter insertion site is to remain infection free during the hospital stay of the patient.
* If signs of infection do occur, arrangements must be made with the Physician for earliest possible site changed to be carried out.
* There will be no excessive blood lose, swelling or bruising post removal of Arterial Line
EQUIPMENT: Dressing pack x 1 Elastoplast dressing
Hibitane solution Rubbish bin
10cm x 10cm gauze Suture cutter
R : 38.1
PROCEDURE:
* Explain the procedure to patient prior to commencement.
* Aseptic preparation prior to commencing procedure.
* Prepare dressing pack at bedside on over bed table prior to positioning patient.
* Remove armband and place arm on bed with dressing facing up. If patient restless
have second nurse to secure limb to avoid accidental removal of arterial line.
* Ensure pressure bag is clamped off to Arterial Line
* Remove old dressing and check site for erythema, drainage, tenderness, suture integrity
and catheter position.
* Clean area around insertion site with Hibitane solution.
* Remove sutures holding in Arterial Line. Protect against accidental removal of the
Arterial Line at this point to avoid unnecessary blood lose from artery
* Place sterile gauze over insertion site and apply pressure too site while withdrawing
Arterial Line
* Pressure should be maintained at least 5 minutes over site to prevent blood lose
and excess bruising and swelling. * Longer periods of applied pressure will be
necessary if the patient has been anti-coagulated
*
Observer site and when bleeding and swelling have stopped remove old gauze. Applied
new sterile gauze over insertion site and secure with Elastoplast dressing.
*
Continue to observe site for bleeding
* Chart that Arterial line has been removed time, date and condition of catheter.
Chart condition of patients skin i.e. swelling, redness or discharge
*ALERT*
Arterial Lines are a direct access to the patients arterial blood circulation hence if contaminated in any way may lead to severe systemic infection.
Reviewed March 1996
R : 38.2
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