Lab 1 Central Lines

Question 1

What are some risks related to central lines? (List at least 5)

Answer 1

1. Infection
2. Pneumothorax
3. Air embolism
4. Sepsis
5. Bleeding at insertion site
6. Thrombus
7. Dislodged catheter
8. Severed catheter
9. Phlebitis
10. Venous cord
11. Fluid extravasation
12. Occlusion
13. Tip migration
14. Tunnel infection

Question 2

True or False: The tip of a central catheter is located in the aorta.

Answer 2

False tip located in superior vena cava, inferior vena cava or at/in tip of right atrium

Question 3

List at least two advantages of a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC line).

Answer 3

1. Useful for acute care & home care
2. Permits freedom of movement
3. Small, flexible, useful in very young or elderly
4. Used to administer fluid/medications and obtain blood

Question 4

CVAD: Describe where the multi lumen is inserted and the purpose of it.

Answer 4

Multi-lumen: peripherally inserted non tunneled catheter may be inserted in an emergency and useful to administer multiple solutions & medications simultaneously.

Question 5

Described where the tunneled catheter is inserted and how it’s used.

Answer 5

inserted in subclavian vein and tunneled through tissue with catheter exit on chest wall such as Broviac or Hickman Catheter or underneath skin such as implantable venous access device Mediport/IVAD. Stays in place long term, useful for administration of TPN, chemotherapy and as access for blood draws.

Question 6

CVAD: Describe PICC lines, how it’s inserted and what it’s used for

Answer 6

peripherally inserted for central administration of medications and fluids, useful for blood draws and may be kept in place for up to 6 months.

Question 7

CVAD: Describe Implanted Vascular Access Device, where it’s put and how it’s used?

Answer 7

– device inserted under the skill for central administration of medications, fluids, blood draws. Not visible, needs to be palpated and located when not accessed.

Question 8

What are some indications of placing a CVAD?

Answer 8

1. Infusion of concentrated fluids such as TPN 15 – 20% or greater glucose concentrated solutions
2. Long term nutrition when enteral route cannot be used
3. Vasoactive medications such as dopamine and dobutamine
4. Poor or limited peripheral venous access
5. Long term medication (such as antibiotics) or chemotherapy administrations