ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses two particular midlines. The smartmidline™ is intended for use in patients who require short-term and mid-term intravenous therapy. Smartmidline™ is a computed tomography rated catheter with the larger gauge sizes being suitable for radiology contrast administration. The ‘standard’ midline is the Lifecath™ midline, which can be used for the duration of treatment. An aseptic technique and surgical scrub is required for all medium- to long-term venous access device insertions. This includes the use of a gown and sterile gloves – surgical Aseptic Non Touch Technique. The upper medial aspect of the patient's arm will need to be cleaned with an appropriate antiseptic solution, and then sterile surgical drapes will have to be placed around the area of interest. Unlike with a smartmidline™, for a standard midline insertion, a breakable sheath mechanism is used to allow one to insert the midline into the vein.
