We have witnessed nurses and anesthesiologists performing conscious sedation in IR and/or endoscopy that draw sedation meds, ie fentanyl, versed etc. into labeled syringes. When the procedure starts they may scrub the hub briefly and push a small amount of sedation. They then disconnect the syringe, recap it and put it in their pocket or on the counter for use as needed for that particular patient's procedure. I am concerned about using the same syringe over and over to achieve proper sedation. I have tried to look up a policy to make less potential for contamination. What are your facilities doing in this situation? They have asked if a stopcock could be used for the individual syringes onto the main ivf line. One port for versed, one for fentanyl, one for NS flush. Where can I get more information?
Thank you in advance!
Molly Judge,RN CRNI VABC
IUHealth Bloomington Hospital
One and Only Campaign
This is the CDC website on safe injection practices. One needle, one syringe, one connection, one time, one patient.
A stopcock is known for its infection risks but if they leave the syringe attached to it for the entire procedure, then remove the syringes and stopcock when the procedure is over, it could reduce the risks from those syringes with multiple connections and carried in their pockets. 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
Thanks Lynn. I felt like the stopcock method would be the best for the procedure only. I agree that keeping the syringe attached could alleviate potential for contamination. I have quoted INS and CDC stating one syringe, one connection, one time for one patient. Thank you for the support!
Molly