What does it mean to run a central line?

A central line (or central venous catheter) is like an intravenous (IV) line. But it is much longer than a regular IV and goes all the way up to a vein near the heart or just inside the heart. A patient can get medicine, fluids, blood, or nutrition through a central line. It also can be used to draw blood.

Why would someone need a central line?

Central venous catheters may be used for the following reason: To give medicines for treatment of pain, infection, or other medical issues (e.g., cancer or heart problems) To provide fluids for nutrition. To help conduct certain medical tests.

What vein is a central line placed in?

The internal jugular vein, common femoral vein, and subclavian veins are the preferred sites for temporary central venous catheter placement. Additionally, for mid-term and long-term central venous access, the basilic and brachial veins are utilized for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs).

Do nurses put in central lines?

Background. Insertion of central venous catheters (CVCs) has historically been a task limited to physicians. However, as the use of CVCs and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has become more commonplace, nurse-led models for insertion and care of these vascular lines have developed.

How long does a central line procedure take?

The procedure is performed while using x-rays to guide placement of the tube. The procedure itself lasts approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour . Usually the patient does not require overnight hospitalization.

Can nurses place central lines?

Nurses have been successfully inserting tunnelled central venous catheters (TCVCs) since 1991 and have accepted this expansion of their role in order to improve the quality of the service to patients (Hamilton, 1995).

What are the risks of a central line?

A variety of complications are associated with central venous catheters, including those associated with catheter insertion and immediate access-related issues, as well as longer-term (>1 week) complications such as catheter malfunction, central vein stenosis or thrombosis, and catheter-related infection.

Is a dialysis catheter A central line?

A central venous catheter (CVC) is a type of access used for hemodialysis. Tunneled CVCs are placed under the skin and into a large central vein, preferably the internal jugular veins. CVCs are meant to be used for a short period of time until a more permanent type of dialysis access has been established.

Can a nurse practitioner do central line?

Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANP) are developing their role in order to insert temporary and permanent central venous catheters to facilitate haemodialysis. Two hundred and eighty-nine central venous catheters (CVC) were inserted over a two-year period.