How do you care for a Tenckhoff catheter?
The Tenckhoff catheter should be flushed ONLY if it is blocked. Do not flush the catheter at any other time. alcohol swabs or chlorhexidine swabs Always keep the end of the needleless adaptor clean and free of germs.
What is the purpose of a Tenckhoff catheter?
Tenckhoff catheters allow peritoneal access for years, rather than the days of safe use for acute PD catheters. Thus patients who recover from their acute illness but still have renal failure may be able to continue PD as treatment for ESRD, using the same access device that supported them through the acute illness.
How do you shower with a peritoneal catheter?
You should not take a shower or bath or go swimming during this time. These water sources are not sterile and can cause an exit site infection. A washcloth or sponge may be used to clean the body, although you should be careful to keep the catheter and bandage dry.
When should dialysis catheter be removed?
The catheter is intended for short-term use – usually 1-4 weeks. It is also known as a vascath, in comparison with long-term tunnelled catheters or permacaths which can stay in place for up to a year.
When should I flush my PD catheter?
A Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter is flushed weekly with heparin when catheter is not in use or more frequently if there is prominent bloody dialysate. A prescriber’s order is required for flushing with heparin. The order may specify “heparin flush peritoneal catheter as per protocol.”
How long does it take to recover from PD catheter?
While healing, you should not exercise too hard or do much lifting. The exit site should be completely healed at 4-6 weeks. It is important to prevent constipation after the catheter is placed. Straining to move your bowels can increase the chance for a hernia (a weakness in the belly muscle).
What is the best position for peritoneal dialysis?
Placement of the peritoneal dialysis catheter requires that the patient be placed in a supine position.