Journal Volume: 7
Journal Number: 2
Article Author: Wava Truscott, PhD, MBA

Abstract:  Central lines are essential for the infusion of potent vasoactive drugs, highly osmotic or hypertonic solutions, total parenteral nutrition, incompatible medications, and cytotoxic drugs as well as for hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and hemodynamic monitoring. In the United States alone, between 5 and 6 million central lines are placed annually. The frequency of central line–associated complications is estimated to be between 5% and 19% depending on definitions and numerous vulnerability factors. The complications can be so devastating that efforts to prevent their occurrence should be routine elements of any related quality improvement program. There are several preventive measures that can be undertaken before, during, and after catheter insertion to reduce patient risk. Some are almost universally practised, but others are rarely formally integrated into procedure requirements. Many of these measures are discussed in this two-part article.