Definition A central venous catheter (CVC) is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a large vein near the heart, typically the superior vena cava, to administer medication, fluids, blood products, or to measure central venous pressure. 2 These catheters are used in various medical settings, including intensive care units, surgery, and long-term treatments. They allow for the rapid infusion of fluids or medications, monitoring of central venous pressure, and sampling of blood.
Indications Monitoring Central Venous Pressure (CVP) Advanced hemodynamic monitoring (PICCO, PA catheter) Central venous oxygenation monitoring IV access Infusion of irritant substances 3
Central line lumen Types Tunneled central venous catheter 4
Central line lumen Types Cont.… Peripherally inserted CVC (PICC) 5
Central line lumen Types Cont.… 6 Subcutaneous port
Complication Infection Thrombosis Catheter Malposition Air Embolism Catheter Breakage or Migration Catheter Occlusion 7
Care of CVP Line Keep the dressing in place at all times. Avoid sharp objects near your line. Avoid getting the dressing wet. Never open the clamps or remove the end caps from the lumens. Avoid pulling on the catheter. 8