Alteplase for the treatment of midline catheter occlusions: A retrospective, single-cohort descriptive study

Elsie Rizk, Anh Thu Tran, Frank Soto, David R. Putney, Amaris Fuentes, Joshua T. Swan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Despite the increasing popularity of midline catheters, data on the use of alteplase for restoring midline catheter patency is scarce. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate off-label use of alteplase for midline catheter occlusions. Method: Adults who received alteplase into a midline catheter between January 2015 and May 2018 within a multi-hospital health system were included in this study. The primary outcome was restoration of infusion or withdrawal function from at least one lumen of a treated midline catheter. Findings: Following alteplase administration, withdrawal function was restored in 47% (25/53) of occlusion events, infusion function was restored in 65% (11/17) of complete occlusion events, and infusion or withdrawal function was restored in 58% (31/53) of occlusion events. Only 34% (17/50) of catheters were replaced because of malfunction. Local bleeding was documented in 9% (n=5) of occlusion events after alteplase administration. Conclusion: Most midline catheter occlusions treated with alteplase demonstrated restoration of infusion or withdrawal function.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)S6-S16
JournalBritish Journal of Nursing
Volume31
Issue number14
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 21 2022

Keywords

  • Alteplase
  • Complete catheter occlusion
  • Midline catheter
  • Occlusion
  • Partial catheter occlusion

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nursing(all)

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