What can be done if there is resistance when flushing a CVAD?

What can be done if there is resistance when flushing a CVAD?

• A. Continue to increase the pressure of the flush
• B. Stop flushing and notify the physician
• C. Flushing can be continued as long as there is no pain
• D. Change the type of flush solution immediately

Answer: (B)

When there is resistance during the flushing of a Central Venous Access Device (CVAD), the best course of action is to stop flushing and notify the physician. This approach is critical because resistance can indicate a potential problem, such as a kink in the catheter, catheter malposition, or formation of a thrombus. Continuing to flush under these circumstances can lead to further complications, including catheter damage, inadvertent release of a thrombus, or other injuries to the blood vessel. Stopping the flush allows for a proper evaluation of the situation by a physician or qualified medical professional, who can assess the underlying cause of the resistance and determine an appropriate intervention. This ensures patient safety and reduces the risk of complications associated with erroneous flushing attempts. It is always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with vascular access devices to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

When there is resistance during the flushing of a Central Venous Access Device (CVAD), the best course of action is to stop flushing and notify the physician. This approach is critical because resistance can indicate a potential problem, such as a kink in the catheter, catheter malposition, or formation of a thrombus. Continuing to flush under these circumstances can lead to further complications, including catheter damage, inadvertent release of a thrombus, or other injuries to the blood vessel.

Stopping the flush allows for a proper evaluation of the situation by a physician or qualified medical professional, who can assess the underlying cause of the resistance and determine an appropriate intervention. This ensures patient safety and reduces the risk of complications associated with erroneous flushing attempts. It is always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with vascular access devices to ensure optimal patient outcomes.