title: Erroneous laboratory values obtained from central catheters.
abstract: Serious analytic errors in potassium measurements have been identified in blood specimens obtained from newly inserted central catheters. Erroneous elevated readings have been related to interactions of chemistry analyzer electrodes and substances fixed to external and intraluminal walls of the central catheter. Anecdotal summaries of this phenomenon are presented to enable the nurse to recognize potential problems when sampling blood from central catheters. Studies were performed to determine the amount of flush necessary to clear the catheter of interfering residue. To eliminate this potentially hazardous occurrence, recommended flush volumes, nursing implications, and actions are described.
authors.forename: J B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Johnston
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Messina
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000451:nursing / Q000592:standards; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000097:blood*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011188:Potassium / Q000097:blood*; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D012965:Sodium Chloride; D011188:Potassium