What does SAS stand for in the context of intermittent venous access?

In the context of intermittent venous access, SAS stands for Saline, Antibiotics, Saline. This protocol is important for flushing intravenous lines, especially when administering medications like antibiotics.

The first saline flush clears the line to ensure there is no residual medication from previous infusions, which could lead to complications or reduced effectiveness of the new medication. Following this, antibiotics are administered directly into the bloodstream. The second saline flush is then performed to ensure that the antibiotic is fully delivered and to clear the line of any medication, preventing potential incompatibilities and ensuring that the patient receives the full dose of the antibiotic without residual left behind that could alter the intended dose.

Understanding this sequence is vital for proper IV therapy practice, as it highlights the importance of maintaining line patency and ensuring that each medication is delivered effectively and safely.