Prior to implantation
Preparations before implantation of an indwelling catheter
A good practice is to always contact your representative at ewimed when you have scheduled a date for implantation of an indwelling catheter. Of course, we help with planning, implantation training, and on-site implantation support. In addition, it is good to consider the following:
- Send information to the referrer if the patient is coming from another unit. Communicate so that it is clear that there must be plenty of fluid in the abdomen/pleura for you to be able to insert the catheter. If the patient has a pigtail catheter, it should be removed a few days before the procedure.
- Inform the patient and pass on our brochure, see Information for the patient.
- If the patient remains in the hospital after implantation: make sure that the responsible staff has the knowledge and materials to drain the patient. Contact us if you have training needs.
- It is important to know who is going to do the drainage at home and that they have the knowledge. Put them in touch with us if there are training needs.
- Make sure you have the necessary materials for a catheter insertion, see our leaflet’s information for physicians and healthcare professionals (Swedish).
- Is the patient on blood-thinning medication? In this case, contact a physician to check whether it should be stopped a few days before the implantation.
Preparations for implantation
- Pre-operative testing, such as blood count.
- Hygiene preparations, e.g. double shower the night before and before surgery, etc. Please contact us for more information.
- Possibly. medication before the procedure.
- The procedure is performed under sterile conditions. To minimise the risk of infection, staff should wear a surgical cap and surgical mask in the procedure room. The operator and assisting staff must be dressed with sterile gown and gloves. We recommend an additional person who is not sterile.
- Keep in mind that a lot of fluid may leak out during the procedure. Place an absorbent cloth under the patient, or alternatively place a sterile collection bag on top of the sterile drape.
