ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the use and care of central venous catheters from the perspective of the bedside nurse. Central venous catheters (CVC) are essential for the safe delivery of electrolytes, nutrition, and medications in patients with necrotizing enterocolitis and who are critically ill, cannot receive nutrition or medication by mouth, or need secure emergent or long-term venous access. The typically used catheters are made from silicone or polyurethane with indications for short- and long-term use and can be inserted in a peripheral or central vein with a single lumen or multiple lumens. A venous catheter is considered to be central when the tip is in the superior vena cava near or in the right atrium. All catheter hubs should be cleaned vigorously, allowing the antiseptic to dry prior to accessing the line. Line occlusion is the next most frequent complication of CVC and occurs most often in PICC lines.
