PharmD Info

Heparin Lock Flush (HLF) is a sterile solution used to flush (clean out) an intravenous (IV) catheter, which helps prevent blockage in the tube after receiving an IV infusion. HLF Solution is intended to maintain patency of an indwelling intravenous catheter designed for intermittent injection therapy or blood sampling.

Heparin Lock Flush Solution may be used following initial placement of the device in the vein, after each injection of a medication, or after withdrawal of blood for laboratory analysis.

Procedure:

Before stating the procedure, hands should be washed with soap and water. Sterile gloves should be used throughout the procedure.

• Unclip the clamp on the end of the catheter and wipe the end of the catheter with an alcohol wipe.

• Screw the heparin syringe to the catheter to attach it.

• Inject the heparin slowly into the catheter by gently pushing on the plunger. Do a little, then stop, then do some more. Inject all the solution into the catheter (do not force it).

• Unscrew the heparin syringe from your catheter. Discard the syringe in the disposing container.

• Clean the end of your catheter with a new alcohol wipe.

• Put the clamp back on the catheter.

For Maintenance of Patency of Intravenous Devices :

To prevent clot formation in a heparin lock set or central venous catheter following its proper insertion, Heparin Lock Flush Solution should be injected via the injection hub in a quantity sufficient to fill the entire device.

This solution should be replaced each time the device is used.

Aspirate before administering any solution via the device in order to confirm patency and location of needle or catheter tip.

If the drug to be administered is incompatible with heparin, the entire device should be flushed with normal saline before and after the medication is administered; following the second saline flush, Heparin Lock Flush Solution may be reinstalled into the device.

For Withdrawal of Blood Samples :

Heparin Lock Flush Solution may also be used after each withdrawal of blood for laboratory tests. When heparin would interfere with or alter the results of blood tests, the heparin solution should be cleared from the device by aspirating and discarding it before withdrawing the blood sample.

Contraindications:

Heparin sodium should NOT be used in patients with the following conditions:

• Severe thrombocytopenia.

• Uncontrollable active bleeding state, except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation.