Question

A nurse is administering a heparin flush to a client with a subclavian central line, but is unable to use the syringe to administer the flush and cannot draw back any blood from the line. The nurse initially suspects a mechanical occlusion of the line. What action should the nurse take?

Answer 1

If there is a mechanical occlusion of a subclavian central line, the nurse should stop attempting to flush the line and inform the healthcare provider. They should assess the client's condition and initiate appropriate interventions as directed by the healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a nurse is unable to administer a heparin flush through a subclavian central line and is unable to draw back any blood from the line, it may indicate a mechanical occlusion of the line. In this case, the nurse should take the following actions:

1. Stop attempting to flush the line and inform the healthcare provider about the situation.
2. Assess the client's condition, monitoring for any signs or symptoms of complications.
3. Initiate appropriate interventions as directed by the healthcare provider, which may include obtaining a new central line, performing a line flush using a different technique, or consulting a specialist if needed.