1. Central Lines CVC-Central Venous Catheters
The placement of a catheter in the right superior vena cava via the cephalic or basilic veins.

2. Purpose of Central Lines
Poor peripheral venous access
Administer large volumes & multiple IVF’s
Central lines may have 1-4 ports
Administration of “caustic” meds
Long term administration
Diagnostic/blood sampling
TPN solutions

3. Anatomy of a Central Line
Usually made of silicone
Has 1-4 ports with male adaptors
“Surgically” inserted by MD
Sutured into the skin to prevent dislodgement
Covered with sterile dressing

4. Nursing Responsibilities
Verify patient’s consent/allergies
Secure supplies-can be bedside
Prepare IVF per MD orders or heparin flush
Wash insertion site prior to insertion
Patient education

5. CVC Maintenance/Care Know facility policy CVC dressing change
Assess for redness, warmth, edema, drainage
Use transparent dressing
CVC site care
Do not touch insertion site
Use CVC dressing kit if available

6. Flushing CVC line Essential in maintaining patency
Never use a syringe with < 10 mL-creates to much pressure
Saline mL
Heparin (100units/mL) 5 mL-have patient perform Valsalva manuever (prevents occulsion of line)
Change male adaptors per policy

7. CVC Line Occlusion
Line won’t flush-STOP
Notify MD

8. Removal of CVC Line RN can remove CVC line
Review procedure per facility policy
Position patient in Trendelenberg or flat
Hand hygiene
Remove dressing/sutures
Valsalva maneuver (prevents air embolism)
Pull with smooth steady motion

9. Post CVC Line Removal Assess site Pressure dressing Assess CVC cath
Document

10. Complications of CVC Lines
Sepsis
Thrombus formation
Air embolism