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affect the performance of the catheter and connectors. 10% acetone/
70% isopropyl alcohol swabsticks used for dressing changes should
not adversely affect the catheter.
I. Prior to beginning placement procedure, do the following:
• Examine package carefully before opening to confirm its integrity and
that the expiration date has not passed. The device is supplied in a
double sterile package and is non-pyrogenic. Do not use if package is
damaged, opened or the expiration date has passed. Sterilized by
ethylene oxide. Do not Resterilize.
• Inspect kit for inclusion of all components.
• Fill (prime) the device with sterile heparinized saline or normal saline
solution to help avoid air embolism.
• When using an introducer kit, verify that the catheter fits easily through
the introducer sheath.
II. To avert device damage and/or patient injury during placement:
• Avoid accidental device contact with sharp instruments and
mechanical damage to the catheter material. Use only smooth-edged
atraumatic clamps or forceps.
• Avoid perforating, tearing or fracturing the catheter when using a
guidewire.
• Do not use the catheter if there is any evidence of mechanical
damage or leaking.
• Avoid sharp or acute angles during implantation which could
compromise the patency of the catheter lumen(s).
• If sutures are used to secure the catheter, make sure they do not occlude
or cut the catheter.
• When using percutaneous introducers:
- Carefully insert the introducer and catheter to avoid inadvertent
penetration to vital structures in the thorax.
- To avoid blood vessel damage, do not allow the percutaneous
introducer sheath to remain indwelling in the blood vessel
without the internal support of a catheter or dilator.
- Simultaneously advance the sheath and dilator with rotational
motion to help prevent sheath damage.
