There’s nothing like hitting the jackpot when performing a centesis and getting the catheter in the sweet spot, enabling you to easily and effectively drain fluid/air from a cavity.
On the flip side is the frustration and disappointment when the catheter stops draining and you know so much more in there could have been removed.
Here is a little trick I was taught, which has helped me countless times.
When using a large bore catheter, I make small fenestrations along the catheter – about 1cm apart, alternating sides. This essentially increases the number of holes air or fluid can drain through.
It is safest with large catheters as smaller ones may snap and remain inside the patient.
How to…
Check out this short video to watch how it is done.
It is a small trick that really works and can make a big difference.
Why not try it next time?
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