Saline Lock Kit

What is a saline lock and why is it used in tactical medicine?

A saline lock (also called a hep-lock or IV lock) is a capped intravenous catheter left in place to provide immediate venous access when IV fluids or medications need to be administered, without requiring continuous fluid infusion. In tactical settings, saline locks are preferred over continuous IV lines during evacuation because they allow freedom of movement, reduce the risk of accidentally pulling the line, and maintain access for rapid drug or fluid administration when the casualty reaches a higher level of care. The NAR Saline Lock Kit provides all supplies needed to place and secure a saline lock in the field.

How does the RAPTOR IV Securing Device work?

The NAR RAPTOR™ IV Securing Device is a mechanical catheter retention system included in the saline lock kit. Unlike tape-based securing methods, the RAPTOR uses a physical locking mechanism to anchor the catheter hub and prevent dislodgement during patient movement. This is especially valuable in tactical environments where the patient's skin may be wet, bloody, or contaminated with dirt, conditions under which adhesive tape typically fails. The RAPTOR can be applied without tape, making it reliable across all environmental conditions.

Does the NAR Saline Lock Kit meet military training standards?

Yes. The NAR Saline Lock Kit (30-0013, NSN 6515-01-537-4094) meets all requirements for U.S. Army Task 081-831-1011 (Establish a Saline Lock). It is referenced in PHTLS 6th Edition (Military) as a field-proven system for saline lock placement and maintenance during tactical casualty care and evacuation. This makes it the standard consumable kit for medics and combat lifesavers following TCCC and Army protocols.

Why are two IV catheters included in the kit?

Two 18G × 1.25 in catheters are included to allow a second cannulation attempt without requiring the medic to source supplies from a separate pack in a high-stress environment. Venous access failure on a first attempt is common, particularly in hypovolemic patients with collapsed veins or in poor lighting conditions. Having a second catheter immediately available within the same kit reduces time-to-access and improves the probability of successful cannulation on a casualty.

What is the difference between the NAR Saline Lock Kit and the TacMed Saline Lock Kit?

Both kits provide the essential components for field saline lock placement, but they differ in specific components. The NAR Saline Lock Kit (30-0013) features the NAR RAPTOR™ IV Securing Device for tape-free catheter retention, and comes vacuum-sealed in a rugged compact pouch. It uses a locking saline plug and includes two 18G × 1.25 in catheters, a 10cc Luer-Lock syringe, and a hypodermic needle. The TacMed™ Saline Lock Kit uses a Smartsite adapter (saline lock), Linebacker IV securing device, and Tegaderm dressing. Both are proven field systems; selection often comes down to provider training and system familiarity.