Saline Lock for Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A saline lock is a thin, flexible tube placed in a vein in your child's hand or arm. It sticks out a few inches. The lock is used when your child may need to get medicines through a vein (intravenous, or I.V.).

The doctor or nurse puts the medicine through the lock and into the vein. This is more comfortable for your child, because the doctor doesn't have to poke your child with a needle every time your child gets medicine. In between medicine doses, the lock closes, so no germs can get into the tube and vein.

Your child will have the saline lock for a few days. You will be told how your child will get the medicine. You may be asked to go to your doctor's office, the hospital, or a special clinic. Or a nurse may come to your home. When the treatment is finished, the doctor will take out the lock.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

How can you care for your child at home?

• While your child has the lock, have your child take showers instead of baths, and do not allow swimming. Keep the lock dry. When your child showers, cover the site with waterproof material, such as plastic wrap. This helps prevent infection.
• Wash the area around the lock daily with warm water, and pat it dry. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
• Follow the doctor's instructions about caring for the dressing. Your child will have a dressing where the lock goes into the skin. It helps protect the lock.
• Do not let your child do any exercise that involves the hand or arm with the lock.