I have to fill out a birth plan sheet for my nurse/midwife and one of the questions asks if I want a hep lock. I have no idea what it is or whether many women get them. Help.
2006-07-12 08:54:12 · 6 answers · asked by Lissa 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Pregnancy
A hep lock is a way to give you IV meds......It is inserted in the back of your hand and after the initial pick, you won't feel it. I would recommend it...it is the fastest way to get pain meds into your system and TRUST me childbirth HURTS.....I have had 3....
2006-07-12 08:59:33 · answer #1 · answered by barb 6 · 1⤊ 2⤋
USES: Heparin lock flush is used to clear (flush) IV lines or catheters to keep them open and flowing freely. This form of heparin must not be used as a blood thinner.
HOW TO USE: This medication is administered by injection directly in to the IV (intravenous) line or catheter. It is usually given each time after the IV line or catheter is used.
SIDE EFFECTS: Because this medication is not administered directly to the body, no side effects are anticipated. However, notify your doctor if you experience: fever, chills, itching or irritation at the line site, unusual bruising or bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: bleeding disorders, ulcers, history of stroke, kidney disease, high blood pressure, allergies (especially to blood thinners or pork). Elderly persons (over 60) may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
2006-07-12 16:38:12 · answer #2 · answered by pinkribbons&walking4boobies 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Heparin is a blood thinner that they give you in the form of a shot. I don't know what a heparin lock is though. Have you tried to call the midwife to ask her?
2006-07-12 15:57:56 · answer #3 · answered by brevejunkie 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A heparin lock or saline lock is a device that is used to enable an Intravenous drip to be stopped while retaining access to the vein. It is a little catheter that remains in the vein but does not require a bottle of I.v. fluid to be running. It gives you more flexibility in your arm and is more comfortable than a full I.V. set.
i have not heard many women using this so i suggest no
2006-07-12 16:09:08 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
a heparin lock is generally related to an IV.. If you are getting an epidural it is the point of infusion for the drug.
Contact your physician.. From a father's perspective DO the epidural and do it before your grabbing your husband by the pole and ripping him a new one.
2006-07-12 16:00:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
a hep lock keeps your IVs open if they have to be in place for a few days. Its no big deal.
2006-07-12 16:48:11 · answer #6 · answered by shelly b 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋