Journal of pediatric oncology nursing : official journal of the Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses
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J Pediatr Oncol Nurs · Jul 2014
ReviewCentral Venous Catheter Flushing Recommendations: A Systematic Evidence-Based Practice Review.
Treatment for many children with blood disorders or cancer includes the use of central venous catheters (CVCs). Few prospective studies have been conducted to address flushing guidelines in pediatric hematology oncology patients. Eighteen pediatric hematology oncology units were surveyed regarding current CVC flushing policies and procedures. Results reported extreme variations in CVC flush procedures, which instigated this systematic review. ⋯ Weak recommendation for daily flushing of noninfusing Broviac/Hickman catheters and accessed implanted ports may be made. There was not sufficient evidence for heparin volume or concentration recommendations. No recommendations can be reported for peripherally inserted central venous catheters. Further research is indicated for CVC flushing procedures in pediatric hematology oncology patients.