When a catheter becomes dysfunctional, it is often related to an occlusion1
Catheter occlusion is the most common noninfectious complication in the long-term use of central lines.1
Indicators of catheter occlusion include1,2:
- Inability to infuse fluids
- Lack of free-flowing blood return
- Increased resistance when flushing
- Sluggish flow
1 out of 4 catheters may become occluded3
Occlusions are either thrombotic or nonthrombotic.3
Indication
Cathflo Activase (Alteplase) is indicated for the restoration of function to central venous access devices (CVADs) as assessed by the ability to withdraw blood.
Safety Information
Cathflo Activase should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to Alteplase or any component of the formulation.
In clinical trials, the most serious adverse events reported after treatment were sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and venous thrombosis.
Please click here for full prescribing information.
McKnight S. Nurse's guide to understanding and treating thrombotic occlusion of central vascular access devices. Medsurg Nurs. 2004;13:377-382.
Hadaway LC. Reopen the pipeline. Nursing. 2005;35:54-61.
Stephens LC, Haire WD, Kotulak GD. Are clinical signs accurate indicators of the cause of central catheter occlusion? J Parent Enteral Nutr. 1995;19:75-79.
