| Learning Objective #1: discuss the importance of collaboration between clinical nurses and nurse researchers to identify needs and implement change based on bedside observations. | |||
| Learning Objective #2: recognize the empiric data which supports the use of saline instead of heparin in pediatric peripheral IV lines. |
Implementing a Change: Switching from Heparin to Saline in Pediatric Peripheral IV Lines; A Pilot Project
Mary L. White, RN, MSN, APRN, BC
University of Detroit Mercy
Jamie L. Crawley, RN, BSN, BA, MBA/HCM
University of Windsor
Dr. Linda A. Lewandowski, Ph D., RN
Wayne State University
Purpose: The purpose of this double-blind, random, quasi-experimental design pilot study will be to determine if saline is equal to or more effective than heparin when flushing pediatric peripheral IV lines. A total of 96 pediatric patients at Children’s Hospital of Michigan will be participating.
Background: A review of literature supports using saline in pediatric peripheral IV lines. Reasons cited include decreased pain reported by the patients; decreased nursing time in flushing the lines; lower side effects; cost-effectiveness, and cultural considerations since heparin is made from animal products. An international phone, e-mail, and web-based survey of 36 hospitals found that 28 hospitals use saline (77.7%) in peripheral pediatric IV lines, while Children’s Hospital of Michigan uses heparin.
Methods: This pilot project will begin in January of 2007. Criteria for inclusion in the study will be: children between the ages of 4 weeks and 18 years; diabetes pediatric patients who would have a second heplock for lab draws; those children with IV fluids that are at a KVO rate or a rate that is ordered only for maintaining the IV (and not for hydration); those children with renal disease who are on fluid restrictions and have a heplock for lab draws; and those children who need IV antibiotics but do not need the IV fluids for their care. Excluded from the study will be children on thrombolytic therapy.
Results: To be analyzed at study completion.
Discussion: Will be based on results.