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If you have a multi-lumen catheter, use a separate syringe to flush each lumen
with sterile heparin solution. Your doctor or nurse will give you additional
information for the care of multi-lumen catheters.
Changing the Injection Cap
Supplies you will need:
•
Sterile injection cap.
•
Alcohol or povidone iodine wipe.
•
Catheter clamp
• Tape
The procedure to change the cap:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Be sure the catheter is securely clamped over the reinforced
sleeve or tape tab.
3. Open the package of the new injection cap and prepare according to
your instructions. Be sure the cap does not touch the outer surface of
the package.
NOTE: You may need to pre-fill the injection cap with heparin if it is
a long cap with significant air space. Your doctor or nurse will teach
you this additional procedure.
4. Remove the old tape from around the cap by unpeeling the tape.
NEVER attempt to cut the tape with scissors as you may damage the
catheter.
5. Using an alcohol or povidone iodine
wipe, clean around the place where
the cap is connected to the catheter.
Allow to air dry.
6. While holding the catheter
connector below the level of
your heart, unscrew the old cap and discard. (The fluid level in the
catheter will drop part-way into the catheter if the connector is held
above the level of your heart.)
