Maintaining the patency of transduced arterial and venous lines using 0.9% sodium chloride

Using dilute concentration of heparin in continuous flush systems for arterial and venous invasive cannulae is an established practice in intensive care units (ICUs) throughout the UK. It is, however, practical to maintain the patency of these lines using 0.9% sodium chloride, thus reducing the possibility of drug interactions, systemic anticoagulation and cost. A small feasibility study was carried out in a 10-bedded general ICU on both arterial and venous lines using 0.9% sodium chloride over a 3-month period. The study has subsequently changed unit policy.