Non-tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter

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1 Patient & Family Guide Non-tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter

2 Non-tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter What is a non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter? A non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter is a special tube made of plastic. It is used for hemodialysis treatment. A doctor inserts the catheter into a large vein in your neck or chest. Sometimes it may need to be placed into a large vein in your leg. You will usually have 2 stitches in your neck or groin to hold the catheter in place. If these stitches come out, a nurse or doctor in the dialysis unit will replace them. The catheter has 2 lumens (tubes) coming from your neck or chest; however, there is only 1 tube inserted under your skin. One lumen carries blood from your body through special tubing connected to the dialysis machine. The other lumen carries cleaned blood from the dialysis machine back into your body. 1

3 Why is a non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter used? A non-tunneled hemodialiysis catheter may be used as a temporary catheter while you are waiting for placement of an arteriovenous fistula, a peritoneal dialysis catheter, or a tunneled catheter. How long can a non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter stay in place? A non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter can stay in place for as long as your doctor feels you need it. How is the non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter inserted? The catheter is inserted in the hemodialysis treatment room or the Diagnostic Imaging (X-ray) Department. You will be asked to lie flat. Sterile drapes will be placed over your face and body during the procedure. The area will be frozen with a local anesthetic. You will be awake during the procedure. 2

4 One small incision (cut) will be made in your neck, chest, or groin area. You may feel pressure in the area where the catheter is being inserted. The procedure will take about minutes. After your procedure You may have discomfort or pain in the area where the catheter was placed. Please let the nurse know if you are having any discomfort. You may be given medication. An X-ray will be done to make sure the catheter is in the right place. After the X-ray, your catheter can be used right away for dialysis treatment if needed. A sterile dressing will cover the catheter site. It will be changed before each dialysis treatment and as needed. 3

5 General information Do: Keep your dressings dry and intact at all times. Ask someone to help wash your hair using these steps: 1. Place 2 layers of plastic wrap over the dressing. 2. Secure the plastic wrap with tape. 3. Place a towel around your neck. 4. Use the sink to wash your hair. Do not: Use safety pins near the catheter. Swim or take a shower. You may take tub baths. Remove the dressing. Exercise your upper body excessively (no contact sports or activities with movements such as golfing or basketball). Talk to your nurse or doctor if you have questions about activities or sports. 4

6 Care at home Call the Hemodialysis Unit at (6:30 a.m. 11 p.m., Monday-Saturday) or go to your local Emergency Department if you have: Pain or swelling around the catheter Fever or chills Bleeding or drainage through the dressing A loose dressing If your catheter falls out: 1. Bear down and hold your breath until you can cover the exit site with gauze, a clean cloth, or your hand. 2. Keep applying pressure. 3. Call 911 or go to your local Emergency Department as soon as possible. 5

7 Notes: Looking for more health information? This pamphlet and all our active patient pamphlets are searchable here: Contact your local public library for books, videos, magazines, and other resources. For more information go to Nova Scotia Health Authority promotes a smoke-free, vape-free, and scent-free environment. Please do not use perfumed products. Thank you! Nova Scotia Health Authority Prepared by: Renal Program, Central Zone, NSHA Designed by: Nova Scotia Health Authority, Central Zone Patient Education Team Printed by: Dalhousie University Print Centre The information in this brochure is for informational and educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be and does not constitute tute healthcare or medical advice. If you have any questions, please ask your healthcare provider. WQ Updated April 2016 The information ion in this pamphlet is to be updated every 3 years or as needed.