How to Flush a TLC

Veterinary as well as human medicine makes use of the triple lumen catheter (TLC). The TLC has three separate tubes, or lumens, that join into a single catheter placed into a large central vein. Inserted most often into the subclavian vein behind the collarbone, each of the three injection ports allow for the simultaneous infusion of medications. Useful for repeatedly drawing blood samples, the TLC can simultaneously administer pain medication, chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition or dialysis. If a person or pet is on long-term medication for a condition such as cancer, the TLC frees them from the stress of repeated needle pokes.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Gown
• Mask
• Saline solution
• Heparin solution
• Alcohol wipes

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Instructions

• 1

  Put on a sterile gown, mask, goggles and gloves. Sterile technique is important because the TLC is directly in the blood stream and as a result is a perfect site for entry of bacteria.

• 2

  Clean the individual TLC injection cap with an alcohol pad. Flush the cap with sterile saline solution.

• 3

  Flush the TLC lumen with a saline solution. Depending upon facility guidelines this may require 3 to 5 ml.

• 4

  Administer prescribed medication or solution. Flush the lumen again with saline when done. After this saline flush, some facilities will require a heparin solution to remain in the lumen until the next use. This prevents blood from clotting in the catheter.