Central Lines Flashcards
Where are central lines inserted?
Large veins - tip of catheter is threaded to end at the superior vena cava
3 advantages of central line?
- can draw blood
- can administer tpn or chemo
- capable of measuring central venous pressure
Disadvantages of central line?
higher risk for infection, needs higher observation of site for redness, swelling, drainage, fever
What are the three types of central lines?
Tunnelled, non tunnelled, and ports
Example of a tunnelled central line?
Hickman Line
Example of a non-tunnelled central line and important features?
PICC line - cannot draw blood gas or take BP from PICCS
Example of a Port Central Line
Portacath
What is important to document regarding Central Line insertion?
- date
- gauge
- length
- type of catheter
- initials of RN
Describe insertion/removal features of tunnelled lines?
- Part of catheter is placed in tissues before entering vein
- normally placed in subclavian vein and threaded to superior vena cava
- inserted in operating room
- central line CAN be put in by bedside if pt in trendelenburg
- removed surgically
Describe insertion/removal of nun-tunnelled lines?
- PICC lines put in by bedside by IV nurse using ultrasound and/or xray
- catheter goes directly into vein
- typically above elbow
- PICC is removed by RN
Describe insertion/removal of ports?
- surgically inserted in operating room
- used for long term treatments
- necessitate use of l-shaped Huber Needle
- removed surgically
Is flushing required for central lines?
YES - SASH method
