After obtaining a blood specimen from a client's peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), what should be the next step for the nurse?

After obtaining a blood specimen from a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), the recommended next step is to flush the catheter with 20 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride. This is important for several reasons.

Firstly, flushing with saline helps ensure that the catheter is clear of any residual blood or blood clots that could obstruct the flow or cause complications. The use of 20 mL is significant because it provides an adequate volume to maintain patency, ensuring that all the blood drawn is cleared from the catheter.

Additionally, flushing with this volume can help confirm the catheter's function after blood collection, ensuring it remains patent for future access. According to recommended practices, flushing with either 10 mL or 30 mL might not be appropriate in this context because 10 mL may not sufficiently clear the catheter, while 30 mL is generally more than necessary and could lead to fluid overload in certain patients.

Using sterile water for flushing can risk introducing bacteria into the system, which is why normal saline is the preferred solution. Therefore, flushing with 20 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride is the best choice as it aligns with best practices for maintaining catheter function and preventing complications.