A randomized trial of heparin and saline for maintaining intravenous locks in neonates.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effects of saline, heparin 2 units (U) per ml saline, and heparin 10 U/ml saline flush solutions on the duration of intravenous (i.v.) locks and the incidence of i.v. infiltration in neonates.


METHODS
Randomized double-blind experiment.


METHODS
Tertiary-care nursery.


METHODS
Neonates (N = 90) hospitalized at birth in the intensive, intermediate care, or newborn units.


METHODS
Total hours from the time the i.v. was inserted to the time the i.v. was removed; hours from the time the i.v. was first flushed to the time the i.v. was removed; number of i.vs. removed because of infiltration.


RESULTS
No statistical or clinical differences between the three groups for duration of i.v. nor for incidence of complications.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of heparin in i.v. lock flush solution did not affect the duration of i.v. locks nor the incidence of infiltration in neonates.
Heilskov
J
J
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA.
Kleiber
C
C
Johnson
K
K
Miller
J
J
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral / Q000379:methods*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D017283:Neonatal Nursing; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000925:Anticoagulants; D012965:Sodium Chloride; D006493:Heparin