Heparin lock
Heparin Lock
Heparin lock (pronunciation: heh-PAH-rin lok) is a medical device used to maintain the patency of an intravenous (IV) catheter.
Etymology
The term "heparin lock" is derived from the name of the anticoagulant drug heparin, which is used to prevent blood clots, and the word "lock", which refers to the device's function of keeping the IV line open.
Usage
A heparin lock is typically used when a patient requires intermittent intravenous therapy, such as medication administration or blood draws, over a period of time. The heparin lock allows the IV line to remain open and ready for use without the need for a continuous IV drip.
The heparin lock is a small plastic tube that is inserted into a vein, usually in the hand or arm. Once the tube is in place, a small amount of heparin is injected into the tube to prevent blood from clotting and blocking the tube. The other end of the tube is sealed with a cap or a needleless connector, which can be opened when it is time to administer medication or draw blood.
Related Terms
- Intravenous therapy: The administration of fluids, medication, or nutrients directly into a vein.
- Heparin: An anticoagulant medication used to prevent and treat blood clots.
- Catheter: A flexible tube inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel to allow drainage, injection of fluids, or access by surgical instruments.
- Anticoagulant: A substance that prevents coagulation (clotting) of blood.
- Blood clot: A clump of blood that has changed from a liquid to a gel-like or semisolid state.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Heparin lock
- Wikipedia's article - Heparin lock
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