Heparin flush vs. saline flush for use in the maintenance of adult central venous and intra-arterial catheters: potential harm, too little gain?

Abstract

Heparin saline use for the maintenance of invasive arterial and central lines may be associated with significant risks and has not been conclusively shown to confer additional benefits over saline flushing alone. The routine use of heparin saline flush instead of saline alone for arterial and central venous catheter maintenance should be thoughtfully considered.