3 replies to this topic

[IdahoMike]

Does anyone know if there would be any significant difference in using LR as a saline lock flush as opposed to NS? They are both crystalloids and LR is a NS product, so on the surface it would seem that there wouldn't be any significant difference other than the electrolyte enhancement of LR. Or do the electrolytes in LR have a negative effect of keeping the lock open? Anyone with some real world experience that has tried this?

Reasoning behind my question:  I prefer the ranger method of vascular access (catheter->saline lock-> tegaderm-> catheter taped down and hooked up to fluids) that way if you have to GTFO, you can pull the second catheter in a split second and still maintain access.  SOOOO... in a sense you are maintaining a saline lock with whatever fluid you are currently using.

PROS/CONS?

Any wisdom would be appreciated,

Mike

[thinbluelion]

Absolutely no difference for field medicine- a 5 or 10cc flush with either will do the job the same.  I've used saline locks for years and love them.  I can easily maintain  IV access while moving and extricating my patients without having to worry about any tubing or fluids.

[Viking_Doc]

I agree. Its the same shit. As long as there isn't any blood in there to harden up and clog the lock, you will be good to go.

[PapaCannoli]

agree