Going Home after a Hemodialysis Catheter Placement
You had a catheter placed today. It goes into a large vein in either the neck or groin. We will use this to access your blood for dialysis treatments.
Discomfort
You may have some after this catheter placement. Use only Tylenol® or prescribed pain medicines. Avoid aspirin, Motrin®, Aleve®, or any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs since they could cause bleeding. After two days, call if you still have pain that is getting in the way of your sleep or being able to care for yourself.
Bleeding
Some slight bleeding can occur. If you have blood soak through your dressings, or if you notice a lump under your skin at your neck (or at the site of your access), please call the contact number below. If you have severe bleeding or trouble breathing, call 911. If you can hold pressure right over the spot, and if the bleeding seems to slow or stop with the pressure, you may have someone drive you to the emergency room. Think about safety as you make this choice. 911 is the best choice if you are not sure of your safety.
To Restart Blood Thinners
If you have been on Coumadin® or Plavix®, speak to your doctor about when these should be resumed. They are not given for a few days before and after placement in most cases, but ask your doctor what is best for you.
Infection
Infection to a line can quickly lead to very serious illness. Call if you see any of these problems.
- Redness around the site.
- Pus at the site.
- Tenderness at the site.
- Fever greater than 100.5° F (under the tongue).
Care of the Site
No routine care is needed until you get to your next treatment. If you have had some oozing, you can cover it with more gauze and tape and leave it until your treatment. As long as there are no signs of infection, you may leave the dressing as is. Continue to sponge bathe until you have checked with your home dialysis unit. No tub baths or showers until then.
Phone Numbers
Dialysis Unit, Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 6:30 pm (608)-263-8748.
After hours, call (608) 262 -0486. This is the paging operator. Ask for the dialysis nurse on call. Leave your name and phone number with the area code. The nurse will call you back.
If you live out of the area, please call 1-800-323-8942.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 02/11/2010
Copyright © 02/11/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6436
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