A Guide to Occlusion & Infusion Related Complications

Definition

An occlusion is defined as a condition in which the catheter is filled with blood or a precipitant preventing solution flow.

Signs and Symptoms

• Inaccurate flow rate is first sign of a partially occluded catheter
• Infusion ceases as catheter becomes more occluded
• Unable to flush

Contributing Factors

• Solution container allowed to become completely empty
• Positional catheter placement
• Inappropriate flushing of catheter
• Administration of incompatible solutions with precipitant formation
• Kinked catheter or pinched administration set

Interventions

• Do not flush an occluded catheter because of potential of pushing embolus into the circulation
• Remove peripheral or midline and examine for integrity
• Apply dry sterile dressing to site
• Place new catheter site in opposite extremity if possible

For PICC’s and CVC’s Request IV Team to Assess

• Obtain order for Alteplase (Cath Flow) 2 mg/2ml
• Send collaborative request to infusion to declot catheter

Preventive Measures

• Follow agency protocol for flushing catheter
• Frequent monitoring of medication container. Change before container is empty
• Use positive flush method (clamp or remove syringe during instillation of last ml)
• Catheters should be flushed with 0.9% sodium chloride before and after medication to maintain patency

Reference

Core Curriculum for Infusion Nursing Third Edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

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