KEY ACTIVITIES
CLINICAL APPROACH TO HEMOPERITONEUM
For postcatheter insertion blood-tinged effluent:
- 500–1000 mL volume flush with heparinized dialysis fluid or saline until drain is clear
- Add heparin 1000 units/L as long as the effluent has visible signs of blood or fibrin to maintain catheter patency
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- Intraperitoneal instillation of heparin does not affect systemic coagulation parameters and does not increase the risk of bleeding.1 However, it has been reported that heparin may still reach the systemic circulation potentially via lymphatic absorption or with increased peritoneal membrane permeability with peritonitis. Therefore, IP heparin is contraindicated in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)1
- Observe drain fluid color with dialysis exchanges
- Document duration of blood-tinged exchanges and progression (increase/decrease)
- Consider investigating for peritonitis or other acute abdominal issue if prolonged
- Obtain imaging and surgical consultation as required
