"Flushing Out": The Incidence of Thrombosis in Patients with Central Venous Catheters

Abstract

The presence of a Central Venous Catheter (CVC) highly increases the risk for CVC associated thrombosis. This investigation explored what evidence-based practice shows is the best method to prevent and treat incidence of thrombosis of adults receiving care in an inpatient setting. The literature reviewed consisted of cohort studies, systematic reviews, and randomized control trials. After reviewing the data, evidence shows the use of positive pressure central line caps are the most effective way to reduce occlusions and thrombosis. The use of subcutaneous injections of an anticoagulant was found to reduce the incidence of thrombosis. In addition, there was no evidence to prove that heparin flushing was more effective than normal saline flushing. Lastly, in the event that a thrombosis formed, the use of a thrombolysis agent was found to be a safe and effective form of treatment. Thus, widespread use of positive pressure caps should be implemented in the hospital setting.