What is a potential consequence of not following CVAD flushing protocols?

What is a potential consequence of not following CVAD flushing protocols?

• A. Improved flow rates
• B. Increased risk of catheter migration
• C. Occlusions and infections
• D. Enhanced patient comfort

Answer: (C)

Not following CVAD flushing protocols can lead to occlusions and infections, making this choice the correct response. Flushing protocols are designed to maintain the patency of the catheter, ensuring that blood can flow freely and helping to prevent blockages caused by clotted blood or other debris. When flushing is not performed according to established guidelines, there is a higher risk of forming occlusions within the catheter lumen, which can obstruct flow. Additionally, inadequate flushing can contribute to the development of biofilms on the catheter, which increases the risk of catheter-associated infections. Proper flushing helps to clear out any residual medications or blood that might otherwise provide a medium for bacterial growth, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the CVAD and protecting the patient's health. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of neglecting proper flushing protocols. For example, improved flow rates would not occur without adequate flushing, and patient comfort is not directly related to flushing protocols. Catheter migration is also a concern but is more associated with improper placement or securing of the device rather than flushing practices.

Not following CVAD flushing protocols can lead to occlusions and infections, making this choice the correct response. Flushing protocols are designed to maintain the patency of the catheter, ensuring that blood can flow freely and helping to prevent blockages caused by clotted blood or other debris. When flushing is not performed according to established guidelines, there is a higher risk of forming occlusions within the catheter lumen, which can obstruct flow.

Additionally, inadequate flushing can contribute to the development of biofilms on the catheter, which increases the risk of catheter-associated infections. Proper flushing helps to clear out any residual medications or blood that might otherwise provide a medium for bacterial growth, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the CVAD and protecting the patient's health.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of neglecting proper flushing protocols. For example, improved flow rates would not occur without adequate flushing, and patient comfort is not directly related to flushing protocols. Catheter migration is also a concern but is more associated with improper placement or securing of the device rather than flushing practices.