What should be done if a catheter becomes occluded?

If a catheter becomes occluded, attempting to flush the catheter is the appropriate initial response. This action helps to determine whether the occlusion is due to a reversible cause, like a small clot or debris within the lumen. By using a saline flush, you can often restore patency without the need for more invasive interventions.

Flushing provides a non-invasive means to assess the functionality of the catheter before exploring further options, such as using medication to dissolve clots or replacing the catheter entirely. If the flush is successful, it confirms that the issue may have been minor and can potentially save time and resources, while also minimizing patient discomfort associated with replacement or additional interventions.

Other options may involve more complex procedures or interventions that can lead to greater risk or complications. Understanding the importance of initial steps in catheter management can significantly improve patient outcomes and preserve vascular access integrity.