UVC Kit

Question 1

What age should patients be to be eligible for UVC

Answer 1

Neonates less than 14 days old

Question 2

Why is the UV cannulated in these patients?

Answer 2

Umbilical vein is large and easy to cannulate

Question 3

What is UVC used for?

Answer 3

• Medicine administration
• Parenteral nutrition
• IVF
• Exchange transfusion
• CVP monitoring
• Frequent blood sampling

Question 4

Contraindications for UVC

Answer 4

• Abdominal surgery requiring incision above umbilicus
• Infection
• Abdominal wall defect

Question 5

Complications for UVC

Answer 5

• Infection
• Thrombophlebitis
• Thromboembolism
• Blood loss
• UVC malposition in heart, great vessels or portal system
• UVC rupture
• Migration of fragmented UVC

Question 6

Is analgaesia or sedation required for UVC insertion

Answer 6

• No analgaesia required as umbilical cord has no pain sensation
• Oral sucrose and swaddling can be provided to pacify baby to facilitate procedure

Question 7

Post procedure care for UVC

Answer 7

• Nurse in supine or lateral position for 24 hours post procedure
• Do not cover umbilical stump
• Ensure no traction applied to UVC at any time
• Assess and document for bleeding or signs of infection hourly
• Should not stay in for more than 7 days without approval from consultant