Does any source still recommend that a pressure dressing with elastoplast tape be placed over a central line site after removal? I am dealing with a hospital that does apply a vaseline gauze, then a gauze and then the elastoplast tape to stay on for at least 24 hours. I used to do this years ago.
This does not insure occlusive, does it?
Also, does anyone place a pressure dressing over an oozing PICC for any specific time? I worry about possible DVT with compression of the vein around the catheter.
Thank you,
Chris Thomas
No to a pressure dressing for any type of CVAD including PICCs. After removal, the nurse should hold manual pressure until it has achieved hemostasis then apply a petroleum ointment based dressing. It is this ointment that provides the occlusiveness not the dressing. That is why a dry dressing alone is not acceptable. For oozing PICCs, there are now several hemostatic products available and a much better option that a pressure dressing. These are mainly powders placed around the oozing site that seals it off. Pressure would bring the vein wall into direct contact with the tunica intima, could disrupt endothelial cells which begins the process of thrombphlebitis. So these hemostatic products are much better than pressure. 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