Cannula/tubing junction
-Blunted cannulas or valve connectors should replace exposed needles.
- This junction can easily become disconnected if the tubing has no luer-lock end. Luer-lock connections prevent dangerous air emboli and excessive blood loss.
-Adding extension tubing and tubing loops
(J loops, Textensions) have several advantages, such as allowing for tubing changes away from the puncture site, providing a slide clamp to facilitate positive-pressure flushing
technique and controlling the backflow of blood into the tubing. - Needleless positive-pressure luer lock connecting caps will become commonplace. These will prevent retrograde return of blood into the catheter, thus reducing catheter clotting.