Does low-dose heparin maintain central venous access device patency?: a comparison of heparin versus saline during a period of heparin shortage.

Background: A common problem that complicates use of central venous access devices (CVADs) is occlusion by thrombosis. Alteplase, a recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, is used to restore line patency when thrombosis occurs. Heparin flush is commonly used to prevent this complication, but the effectiveness of this practice is unclear.

Using failure mode and effects analysis to plan implementation of smart i.v. pump technology.

Purpose: Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) was used to evaluate a smart i.v. pump as it was implemented into a redesigned medication-use process.