Peripheral intravenous catheter

Definition

A peripheral intravenous catheter is a small, flexible tube inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand, used to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream. This type of catheter is essential for providing vascular access for patients requiring parenteral nutrition or other intravenous therapies, as it allows for quick and efficient administration without the need for more invasive central lines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Peripheral intravenous catheters are typically used for short-term access, usually lasting from a few hours to several days.
2. The insertion site should be carefully selected based on the patient's veins, avoiding areas with skin infections or previous vein damage.
3. Common complications include phlebitis (inflammation of the vein), infiltration (fluid leakage into surrounding tissue), and infection at the insertion site.
4. The diameter of the catheter can vary; larger gauge sizes are used for rapid fluid delivery and blood transfusions.
5. Proper technique in insertion and maintenance is crucial to minimize risks and ensure the effectiveness of the catheter for parenteral nutrition.

Review Questions

• What are the advantages of using a peripheral intravenous catheter over other types of vascular access devices?
  • Peripheral intravenous catheters provide several advantages including ease of insertion, minimal invasiveness, and lower risk of serious complications compared to central lines. They are ideal for short-term use and can be placed quickly at the bedside. Additionally, they are associated with fewer risks of infections and thrombosis, making them suitable for many patients needing immediate vascular access.
• Discuss the potential complications associated with peripheral intravenous catheters and how they can be prevented.
  • Complications such as phlebitis, infiltration, and infections can arise from peripheral intravenous catheters. To prevent these issues, proper site selection is critical; using veins that are healthy and undamaged helps reduce risk. Regular monitoring of the site for signs of complications and using aseptic techniques during insertion and maintenance are also essential practices to minimize complications and ensure patient safety.
• Evaluate the role of peripheral intravenous catheters in managing patients requiring parenteral nutrition and how they fit within broader treatment protocols.
  • Peripheral intravenous catheters play a vital role in managing patients who require parenteral nutrition by providing a means to deliver essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream. While they are not suitable for long-term use compared to central venous catheters, they are effective for short-term nutritional support. The choice between using peripheral or central access depends on factors such as the duration of therapy required and the patient's overall condition. In practice, understanding when to use each type is crucial in developing comprehensive treatment plans that address nutritional needs while minimizing risks.

Related terms

Parenteral nutrition: A method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous line.

Intravenous therapy: The administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient's vein via an intravenous line.

Central venous catheter: A type of catheter that is inserted into a large vein, often used for long-term intravenous access and for patients requiring extensive or frequent parenteral therapy.