Central Lines

Question 1

Where are central lines inserted?

Answer 1

Large veins - tip of catheter is threaded to end at the superior vena cava

Question 2

3 advantages of central line?

Answer 2

• can draw blood
• can administer tpn or chemo
• capable of measuring central venous pressure

Question 3

Disadvantages of central line?

Answer 3

higher risk for infection, needs higher observation of site for redness, swelling, drainage, fever

Question 4

What are the three types of central lines?

Answer 4

Tunnelled, non tunnelled, and ports

Question 5

Example of a tunnelled central line?

Answer 5

Hickman Line

Question 6

Example of a non-tunnelled central line and important features?

Answer 6

PICC line - cannot draw blood gas or take BP from PICCS

Question 7

Example of a Port Central Line

Answer 7

Portacath

Question 8

What is important to document regarding Central Line insertion?

Answer 8

• date
• gauge
• length
• type of catheter
• initials of RN

Question 9

Describe insertion/removal features of tunnelled lines?

Answer 9

• Part of catheter is placed in tissues before entering vein
• normally placed in subclavian vein and threaded to superior vena cava
• inserted in operating room
• central line CAN be put in by bedside if pt in trendelenburg
• removed surgically

Question 10

Describe insertion/removal of nun-tunnelled lines?

Answer 10

• PICC lines put in by bedside by IV nurse using ultrasound and/or xray
• catheter goes directly into vein
• typically above elbow
• PICC is removed by RN

Question 11

Describe insertion/removal of ports?

Answer 11

• surgically inserted in operating room
• used for long term treatments
• necessitate use of l-shaped Huber Needle
• removed surgically

Question 12

Is flushing required for central lines?

Answer 12

YES - SASH method