Reestablishing patency in an occluded central venous access device

Nurses in a full range of settings from acute to home care are increasingly exposed to the use and maintenance of central VADs. Although the advantages of central VADs are well recognized, the incidence and potential for complications associated with these devices should not be minimized. The major complication of catheter occlusion has the potential of inducing significant morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the following care plan is to familiarize the nurse with the information needed to restore catheter patency efficiently, safely, and effectively, thereby reducing the potential complications and enhancing the quality of patient care.