When drawing labs samples from the vascular access device draw only the volume of blood needed for accurate testing. INS states to consider blood sampling through a short peripheral catheter for patients who require multiple laboratory tests, are at risk for bleeding and/or have limited or difficult venous access. When lab sampling off a Midline and a Central Vascular Access Device (PICC and CVC) always use a 10ml syringe to withdraw blood. Attach your syringe and withdraw 4-5ml’s of waste, then attach another syringe and withdraw only the necessary volume of blood needed for sampling. Draw off the largest lumen of multiple lumen lines. The lumens have the gauge printed on them. It used to be that the “red” port was the largest lumen and used for lab sampling. This is no longer true. You need to look at the lumens and choose the largest one for sampling. Be sure to flush well after sampling. Some facilities flush with 20ml’s of NSS for adults. Be sure to know your facilities policy. Pediatric lines are flushed with much less volume of NSS. Working as a team with lab and other nurses can make this process go smoother. Having staff available to hand off the sample to, so you can flush the line and resume therapy is better for the patient and their vascular access device. Nurses in our facility are the only ones who draw off central lines. Lab staff have been educated on the different types of vascular access devices.
Proud to Partner With:
