Procedure 38 — Venous Access: Central Line Maintenance

What is the clinical indication for the central line maintenance procedure?

Transport of a patient with a central line already in place.

What must be ensured about a central line before transport?

That it has been secured prior to transport.

Under what condition may medications or IV fluids be given through an existing central line?

If that line has already been accessed and the patient is routinely receiving medications or fluids through it.

What volume of blood is withdrawn and wasted from a central line before use?

10 mL.

Why is blood withdrawn and wasted from a central line before use?

To prevent a heparin bolus from being administered to the patient.

What should not be done to the central venous catheter during transport?

Manipulate it.

Name three signs that indicate a central venous catheter should not be used.

It becomes dysfunctional, does not allow drug administration, or becomes dislodged.

What two actions should be taken if a central venous catheter shows any of these signs?

Stop the infusion and contact Medical Control.

What should be understood about using a malfunctioning central line?

Do not use the line.

What three things must be documented in the PCR regarding central line use?

The time of any pressure measurements, the pressure obtained, and any medication administration.

What provider level performs central line maintenance?

EMT-P.