Central Venous Lines (CVP)

Transcription

1 2011 Central Venous Lines (CVP)

2 Central Venous Line This pamphlet is about a central venous pressure (CVP) line and why it may be needed. We would like to encourage you to read this pamphlet. The nurses and doctors will also explain the use of this line. Feel free to ask us any questions about the line and about any other aspect of care. What is a CVP line? A CVP line is a special intravenous (IV) line. The line may have 1, 2, or 3 lumens (multiple IV lines in one) that can be connected to tubing or needle free adapters. Why is it used? We will explain why this line is needed. A CVP line may be used when a patient needs: to have measurements taken that will help to determine the best treatment. a large vein IV access to give fluids and/or medications. a type of IV feeding called total parenteral nutrition (TPN). One section of this line may be used for monitoring (CVP monitoring) when patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU), or Operating 1

3 Room (OR). Sometimes, a patient on a regular nursing unit may need a CVP line or may have one after transfer from a special care unit. Where does the line enter the body? The doctor inserts the line into a large vein in the neck or upper chest. Sometimes the doctor may need to place the line into a vein in the groin or arm. How is a line inserted? The doctor assisted by a nurse or another doctor will insert the CVP line. The patient will be placed on his/her back. Usually the bed is tipped so the head is lower than the foot. The area will be frozen. The skin will be cleaned. 2

4 A needle is usually inserted into a large vein in the neck or upper chest. The central line is placed in the correct position. The line is stitched to the skin. A clear dressing will be placed over the area. An X-ray will be done to ensure the catheter is positioned correctly. What happens while the line is in place? The nurse will take measurements and blood samples, give IV fluids, run TPN (total parenteral nutrition) and give medications. If the line is needed for more than 4 days, the nurse will change the tubing and the clear dressing. Sometimes, parts of the central line have needle free adapters and there is no tubing connected. How is the catheter removed? The doctor decides when the patient is well enough to have the line removed. The nurse will remove it. First, the stitch is cut and removed. The nurse removes the central line. You may feel the line being removed but it will not be painful. Pressure will be applied for 5-10 minutes. Then a dressing will be placed over the area. 3

5 What are the risks of a CVP line? There is a risk of: infection irregular heart beats collapsed lung bleeding death Your doctor will discuss/explain these risks with you. We know that this is a stressful time for all of you. This may make it very difficult to remember things. We want to help you understand all aspects of care. If at any time you wish us to review information, do not hesitate to ask. Notes 4

6 Looking for more health information? Contact your local public library for books, videos, magazine articles and online health information. For a list of public libraries in Nova Scotia go to Capital Health promotes a smoke-free and scent-free environment. Please do not use perfumed products. Thank you! Capital Health, Nova Scotia Prepared by: Critical Care Emergency Resource Team, Halifax Diagram by: Janice Bennett-Mumford Designed and Printed by: Capital Health Audio Visual and Printing Departments The information in this brochure is provided for information and education purposes only. The information is not intended to be and does not constitute healthcare or medical advice. If you have any questions, please ask your healthcare provider. IC Revised May 2011 The information in this pamphlet is to be updated every 3 years.