Big Thursday Clean, Flush (and Fold)......

Today was a big day for the CVC! Nina had to change the cap, do the Heparin flush, then do a dressing change. Before they started, they both watched the DVD refresher course they purchased from MD Anderson to help calm the nerves....

Here is some more information: A central venous line catheter has an opening on each end used to deliver fluids and drugs. It is inserted through the skin into a large vein that feeds into a larger vein sitting above the heart. When it is not in use, a plastic cap and a clamp close any part of the line that sits outside which prevents leaking blood. The CVC is tied with sutures (stitches) to the skin to keep it in place. Prevention of infection is of the utmost importance! For this reason, touching the central line is discouraged and anyone that does touch it must sterilize their hands first. The skin exit site must be kept clean and dry. A dressing is used over the exit and should be changed regularly. The CVC line needs to be flushed regularly to prevent it from becoming blocked and prevent blood clots.
Suffice it to say, it must be done in a sterile environment – everything clean and no pets allowed – sorry Sophie and Katy….!!! Nina said everything looked good – no oozing or puffiness.

Dad is feeling good today. A little pain, but nothing too bad....Onward and upward...