We are presently trialing the use of midlines to help reduce the need for central accesses. We are not having success with maintaining blood returns. Does anyone utilize a midline that has been successful? if so what brand? and are you having difficulty with blood returns? Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated.
What is the length? Patient specific from a trimming or one that is not trimmed? If the tip is placed too near the shoulder and the arm is positioned close to the body, you might need to move the arm outward. Or slightly shorten the length inserted so it is not located too far into the shoulder. Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
126 Main Street, PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861
Hello CSCHICK,
We use the Medcomp polyurethane midline - both a 4F single lumen and a 4f dual lumen. We used to have the silicone midlines from another maker/vendor, but we ran into the same issues as you have stated. The softer silicone caves in on istself when dong blood draws.
The polyurethane is a great material and we are having no issues with this midline at all. I hope this helps
JRM
CSCHICK
There are a number of new midline products on the market today, including our M/29 Midterm, a 3FR polyurethane catheter which may fill your need for both infusion therapy and blood draws.
One must be mindful of the blood draw method to avoid hemolysis and flushing to minimize the shortening of the life of the catheter.
I am happy to share our advice and experiences with you directly as I don't want to overstep my bounds on this site - being a developer and manufacturer.
Chip Hanlon
Flexicath, Inc.
[email protected]
412-915-6442
www.flexicath.com