How much Normal Saline should be used to flush a saline lock?

In the context of flushing a saline lock, the recommended volume is typically around 5 cc of Normal Saline. This amount is sufficient to clear the lock of any potential debris, facilitate the infusion of medications, and maintain patency without risking fluid overload.

Using this specific volume helps to ensure that the saline lock remains functional while minimizing the discomfort for the patient. Flushing with too much fluid can lead to unnecessary pressure within the vascular system and can be uncomfortable for the patient. Therefore, the 5 cc flush strikes an effective balance between maintaining the integrity of the lock and ensuring patient safety.

In practice, guidelines may vary slightly depending on institutional protocols, but the standard recommendation is generally in the range of 5 cc for such purposes.