About central venous catheters

A central venous line is a catheter (CVC) which is placed directly via one of the large veins of the body (jugular, subclavian or femoral) and where the tip lies in one of the central veins (superior vena cava or inferior vena cava). These lines can have up to five lumens and are held in place by a suture or catheter securement device.

They are commonly used for the measurement of central venous pressure, the administration of fluids and/or toxic drugs, in patients who have limited peripheral access (limited or no access to veins in the hands or feet) and for short-term haemodialysis.

There are many reasons why people may have a CVC. They may need blood products, liquid drugs, food or other fluids delivered slowly into their bloodstream. Some people may need to use a CVC for a long time or for life. With help and support, many patients can manage their CVC at home.

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are frequently used to obtain central venous access for patients in secondary and primary care (hospitals and community care). PICCs are a reliable alternative to short-term central venous catheters, with a lower risk of complications.

Contact your healthcare professional or hospital’s emergency department if you think you have an infection (common signs are swelling at the insertion site, feeling unwell and having a temperature), or if anything looks or feels different. You should be given an emergency number as well as one to call during office hours. It is important to act quickly.

Central venous catheters

There are different types of catheters. Your healthcare professional will let you know which kind you have. You may have a:

• peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)
• peripheral cannula
• implantable port
• Hickman line.

Avoiding infection – what you can do

Because a CVC is put into a major vein, serious infection can happen very quickly. People with CVCs, their carers and healthcare professionals need to follow these strict rules to prevent infection.

Before you leave hospital, you and your carer/s will have in-depth training in managing your CVC safely at home. You will be given on-going support and help after you return home so that you continue to feel confident about following these instructions.

Your healthcare professionals will also have had special training in avoiding infection.

Looking after your central venous catheter

• Make sure you follow the instructions given by your healthcare professional at all times.
• Wash your hands carefully with soap and water or a hand rub solution before touching your CVC.
• Wear sterile gloves for touching the insertion site or changing your dressing.
• Change the dressing on your insertion site every seven days or sooner if necessary, for example if it becomes wet, dirty or loose. Use the cleaning solution and dressings provided.
• Do not put any cream, ointment or solution on the insertion site unless it has been prescribed for you.
• Clean your catheter and its entry points as instructed, before and after you use it, with the solutions provided.
• Change your administration set as you have been instructed.