Flush bags

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Elizabeth Cassidy
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Joined: 01/26/2018 - 10:58
Flush bags

Does anyone have a protocol for using flush bags to ensure the entire volume of a primary parenteral infusion goes into the patient? Our primary sets have a volume of ~24 mL and when an intermittent completely "infuses" there is still a somewhat large volume of drug left in the tubing. My understanding from our pump vendor is that the only way to address this is either use of a flush bag or by hanging the intermittent into a secondary line.

If your site has implemented flush bags, what does that look like? Is it a protocol order where the nurse can use judgment on whether/when a flush bag is needed and charts on it PRN, or is it used for all small volume intermittent parenteral infusions? What volume of a flush is routinely used?

I appreciate any insight anyone has -- even if it's just being discussed!