The Mandelbear's Musings

Finally was able to remove the recalcitrant FloLock cap from Colleen's PICC line -- it's supposed to be changed every day, and it's been jammed ever since I overtightened it on Thursday.

The tool that finally worked was an 8" Crescent wrench (based on Colleen's original idea of using an open-end wrench, but the Crescent's longer jaws and adjustability were essential). The port on the PICC line has a narrow neck with two little wings - you can sort of get a grip on it, but not if the cap is stuck. Puttiing the wings against the wrench jaws lets you hold it firmly while turning the cap, which has a large enough diameter to let you apply enough torque with your fingers.

I am vastly relieved.

... if only by my fingernails. Managed to get through this afternoon's TPN disconnect without falling apart, in spite of some minor crosstalk, a couple of flubs, and the fact that I'd somehow managed to overtighten the cap when I changed it yesterday. I still have one more trick to try tonight before throwing in the towel and calling for help. (21:05 paper towel didn't work; metaphorical towel will be officially thrown tomorrow with a call to the infusion clinic. No, the general rule of "if you can't do it right, use ViceGrips does not apply in this case.)

I'll do it in the bedroom from now on; if nothing else, not having to kneel down will take a lot of strain off my knees, and not having to bend over will take a lot of strain off my back.

Joyce drove Colleen to Furcon this afternoon. It's good to see her getting out of the house, even though it's only short excursions with help. I worry about next weekend.

I have a headache. It's not helping.