24. If unable to obtain blood return, try troubleshooting, such as removal of catheter with reinsertion,
doing a cutdown or if an umbilical vein attempt placement of a second catheter next to the first
catheter.
25. Using a 3-0 silk suture on a small, curved needle, suture the catheter to the Wharton Jelly.
26. Obtain an x-ray or babygram while maintaining the sterile field to verify the position of the
catheter and adjust as necessary. If the umbilical catheter is too deep, it may be withdrawn to a
correct position in a sterile fashion. If under sterile conditions, an umbilical catheter may be
pushed in if found to be low to the correct position, but once no longer sterile the catheter must be
removed.
27. Once placement is confirmed make sure to fully secure the catheter by suturing in place.
28. Antiseptic solution should be removed from the skin using warm water or saline and gauze after
the procedure.
29. Make sure to complete a procedure note in the patient’s chart. The procedure note should include
radiographic verification of the catheter tip. Also confirm final position with the bedside nurse.
30. The bedside nurse will secure the umbilical catheter to the abdomen by placing a cut piece of
Duoderm on the abdomen next to the umbilicus, and securing the umbilical catheter in a loop over
the Duoderm using Tegaderm, ensuring that the catheter markings are visible. In infants with both
UAC and UVC placement, each line should be secured separately, one on each side of umbilicus.
30. If persistent oozing is noted from the umbilical stump after placement, check the umbilical tie to
ensure it is tight enough. Avitene is also available if oozing persists. Once Avitene is placed, the
RN will visualize the site and q 15 minutes x 1 hour. If oozing persists, the responding clinician
will be called to the bedside for further management regarding whether lab monitoring or blood
product replacement if necessary.
RN/Assistant Tasks
1. Complete a safety pause prior to procedure.
2. Place Sterile Procedure in Progress sign on the closed door prior to the start of the procedure and
illuminate the purple light on the nurse call system outside of the patient’s room. Everyone present
during procedure should wear a hat and mask
3. Make sure that the Observation checklist is completed in EPIC during the procedure.
4. After catheter position has been confirmed and medical provider has sutured the line in place,
secure umbilical catheter to abdomen with adhesive, making sure catheter markings are visible.
5. Make sure that Maintenance checklist is obtained and filled out every shift.
6. If oozing is noted from the umbilicus, please refer to nursing policy NICU C.5 Assisting with
Umbilical Vessel (Arterial and/or Venous) Catheterization and/or Peripheral Arterial Line
Placement and Removal . Once Avitene is placed, RNs must visualize and document the site q 15