Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

A Protocol to Set Up Needle-Free Connector with Positive Displacement on Central Venous Catheter in Intensive Care Unit
Published on: July 13, 2019
Flushing protocols for tunneled central venous catheters: an integrative review of the literature
1Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. labuswell@bics.bwh.harvard.edu
Abstract:
The flushing regimes for and associated practices related to tunneled central venous catheters (Hickman and Broviac) vary widely. Recommendations for flushing tunneled central venous catheters are abundant in the literature, but few are research-based. This manuscript describes the clinical problem and summarizes six research-based studies that appear in the literature. Practice recommendations based on this review include using 5 mL of 10 unit/mL of heparin once or twice weekly. It is clear that additional prospective randomized studies are needed to elucidate the optimal flushing regime for patients with tunneled central venous catheters.
Related Concept Videos
Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition
PN can be administered through two primary routes:
1. Central Parenteral Nutrition (CPN):
CPN involves delivering a high concentration of nutrients through a large vein. This is typically achieved using a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) or,...
Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging

