Complications of Central Venous Catheters

Question 1

Prevention & Tx of Pneumothorax (during insertion of a central venous catheter)

Answer 1

Prevention: Use ultrasound to locate veins, avoid subclavian insertion when possible - Tx: Admin O2, assist provider with chest tube insertion

Question 2

Prevention & Tx of Air embolism caused from a central venous catheter

Answer 2

Prevention: Have client lie flat when changing admin set or needleless connectors, ask client to perform Valsalva maneuver if possible - Tx: Place client in left lateral Trendelenburg, admin O2

Question 3

Prevention & Tx of Lumen occlusion caused from a central venous catheter

Answer 3

Prevention: Flush promptly with NS btwn, before, & after each med - Tx: Use 10 mL syringe with a pulsing motion

Question 4

Prevention & Tx of Bloodstream infection caused from a central venous catheter

Answer 4

Prevention: Maintain sterile technique - Tx: Change entire infusion system, notify provider, obtain cultures, and admin antibiotics