ABSTRACT
Vascular catheterization is the most common procedure performed in critically ill patients (1). Sites of catheterization include the peripheral veins, central veins, large systemic arteries, and pulmonary arteries. Insertion of peripheral venous catheters is usually performed by nonphysician support staff and managed by protocol that includes removal within 72 hours. Limiting peripheral venous catheters to 72 hours or less has virtually eliminated these catheters as a significant source of infectious complications (2,3).
