Chapter 17: Vascular access devices: insertion and management
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Post‐procedural considerations
Immediate care
The catheter may be sutured in place but this is no longer recommended due to the risk of infection and the need to reduce the use of sharps (Crnich and Maki [94], HSE [217], Maki [290]). The use of other securement devices is recommended, such as a StatLock (Figure 17.37) or SecurAcath (Ullman et al. [448]).
Figure 17.37 StatLock securement device.
Ongoing care
Flushing is recommended after each use of the catheter. The types of dressing used at the insertion site may vary according to the type of patient and unit. A transparent dressing should be used and changed every 7 days or according to the manufacturer's instructions or local policy (NICE [351], RCN [381]). This enables staff to observe the site regularly for any signs of infection.
These types of catheter can remain in situ for up to 3–4 weeks (follow the manufacturer's instructions). However, actual practice will depend on local policy: some units will remove and reinsert if necessary every 10–14 days.
